The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has recently released the eagerly awaited Third Advance Estimates for the agricultural year 2022-23. These estimates reveal a momentous milestone in the agricultural sector, with record-breaking production figures across various crops. Farmers across the country have reason to celebrate as their hard work, coupled with the government’s farmer-friendly policies, has resulted in exceptional growth. Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the agriculture sector is flourishing, showcasing the tremendous potential of India’s farmers.

Overview

The Third Advance Estimates provide valuable insights into the agricultural landscape, drawing on data from states, alternative sources, and comprehensive feedback mechanisms. This initial assessment is subject to revision as subsequent estimates incorporate additional information. The highlights of the Third Advance Estimates for 2022-23 are as follows:

1. Food Grains:

• A record-breaking foodgrain production of 3305.34 Lakh Tonnes is estimated for the current agricultural year.
• Rice production is estimated at a record 1355.42 Lakh Tonnes, setting a new benchmark.
• Wheat production is expected to reach 1127.43 Lakh Tonnes, marking a significant increase.

2. Other Major Crops:

• Bajra: An estimated production of 111.66 Lakh Tonnes.
• Nutri/Coarse Cereals: Anticipated production of 547.48 Lakh Tonnes, a remarkable achievement.
• Maize: Projected production of 359.13 Lakh Tonnes, reaching a record high.
• Total Pulses: Expected production of 275.04 Lakh Tonnes, surpassing the previous year’s figures.
• Gram: Estimated production of 135.43 Lakh Tonnes, reflecting consistent growth.
• Moong: A substantial increase in production, reaching 37.40 Lakh Tonnes.
• Oilseeds: A record production of 409.96 Lakh Tonnes, signifying significant progress.
• Groundnut: Expected production of 102.82 Lakh Tonnes.
• Soybean: Estimated production of 149.76 Lakh Tonnes, setting a new record.
• Rapeseed & Mustard: Production anticipated to reach 124.94 Lakh Tonnes, another remarkable feat.
• Cotton: Production estimated at 343.47 Lakh bales (of 170 kg each).
• Sugarcane: A record-breaking production of 4942.28 Lakh Tonnes, indicating exponential growth.
• Jute & Mesta: Estimated production of 94.94 Lakh bales (of 180 kg each).

Key points and Comparative Analysis

The Third Advance Estimates for 2022-23 demonstrate the extraordinary progress achieved by Indian farmers.

Key highlights of the estimated production figures, compared to previous years, are as follows:

1. Food Grains: A remarkable increase of 149.18 Lakh Tonnes, showcasing the consistent growth trajectory of the agricultural sector.
2. Rice: An impressive surge of 60.71 Lakh Tonnes in production, underlining the sector’s resilience.
3. Wheat: Production witnessed a substantial growth of 50.01 Lakh Tonnes, reinforcing India’s self-sufficiency in staple grains.
4. Maize: A significant rise of 21.83 Lakh Tonnes in production, reflecting enhanced agricultural practices.
5. Nutri / Coarse Cereals: A commendable increase of 36.47 Lakh Tonnes, indicating diversified cultivation patterns.
6. Moong: Witnessed a substantial growth of 5.74 Lakh Tonnes, contributing to the overall pulses production.
7. Total Pulses: Recorded a modest increase of 2.02 Lakh Tonnes, further strengthening the pulse production scenario.
8. Oilseeds: A significant rise of 30.33 Lakh Tonnes, emphasizing the importance of oilseed cultivation.
9. Soybean and Rapeseed & Mustard: Noteworthy increases of 19.89 Lakh Tonnes and 5.31 Lakh Tonnes, respectively, denote the potential for oilseed cultivation.
10. Sugarcane: An astounding surge of 548.03 Lakh Tonnes in production, reflecting the promising future of the sugar industry.
11. Cotton and Jute & Mesta: Stable production figures, ensuring the availability of raw materials for textile industries.

Conclusion

The Third Advance Estimates for the agricultural year 2022-23 paint a promising picture of Indian agriculture. The record-breaking production figures across various crops highlight the incredible efforts of farmers, the proficiency of scientists, and the farmer-friendly policies of the government. As the agriculture sector continues to evolve and thrive, it reinforces the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to empower and uplift the farming community. The Indian agricultural landscape is poised for unprecedented growth, ensuring a prosperous future for our farmers and the nation as a whole.

The world of farming, where hard work and dedication come together to create bountiful harvests. As a farmer, your role in ensuring food security and economic stability is crucial. The Government of India recognizes the importance of your contributions and has implemented a robust procurement policy for paddy that aims to provide you with fair prices, guarantee food availability for all, and maintain market stability. In this overview, we will delve into the key aspects of this policy, including its objectives, the procurement process, payment mechanisms, and the benefits it brings to farmers like you.

Overview

The Government policy of procurement of paddy has broad objectives encompassing the welfare of farmers and the food security of the nation. It strives to ensure that farmers receive a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their produce, making farming a financially viable profession. Simultaneously, it ensures the availability of food at affordable prices for the weaker sections of society. This policy also plays a vital role in market intervention, effectively managing prices and contributing to the overall food security of the country.

Key Points

1. Production and Procurement Statistics

• As per the second advance estimate, the production of rice during the Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2022-23 is projected to reach 1308.37 LMTs, showcasing a significant contribution to the agricultural landscape.
• The estimated procurement of rice for the same season is 626.06 LMTs, with an actual quantity of rice procured standing at 520.63 LMTs.
• This procurement has led to a significant MSP payment of Rs. 159,659.59 Crores, benefiting a total of 1,12,96,159 farmers.

2. Agencies Involved in Procurement

• The Food Corporation of India (FCI), along with other State Agencies, acts as the nodal central agency for the Government of India in the procurement of paddy.
• The procurement operations are primarily carried out by State Governments and their agencies, ensuring a decentralized and localized approach.

3. Minimum Support Price (MSP) and Awareness

• Before each Rabi/Kharif Crop season, the Government declares the MSP for procurement based on the recommendations of the Commission of Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP).
• Multiple communication channels are utilized to generate extensive awareness about the Minimum Support Price (MSP) operations. These include diverse platforms like pamphlets, banners, signboards, radio, television, print media, and electronic media, ensuring widespread publicity and information dissemination.
• Farmers are made aware of quality specifications and the purchase system to help them bring their produce in line with the required standards.

4. Procurement Centers and Convenience

• FCI and Respective State Government agencies strategically establish procurement centers, taking into account various factors like production levels, marketable surplus, convenience for farmers, and the availability of logistical infrastructure.
• Additional temporary purchase centers are established at key points to facilitate farmers, ensuring convenience and reducing waiting periods.

5. One Nation, One MSP through DBT

• To strengthen the system and ensure direct MSP payments to farmers, the “One Nation, One MSP through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)” initiative has been implemented since RMS 2021-22.
• This initiative eliminates fictitious farmers, reduces payment diversion and duplication, and brings transparency, accountability, and probity to the system.

6. Online Procurement System

• To enhance transparency and convenience for farmers, both FCI and several State Governments have developed their own online procurement systems, revolutionizing the procurement process. These digital platforms provide farmers with easy access to information, ensure transparency in operations, and streamline the overall procurement experience.
• Farmers can access updated information regarding MSP, nearest purchase centers, and procurement dates through these systems, reducing waiting periods and allowing flexible delivery.

7. Procurement Systems

•  There are two systems for the procurement of paddy: the Centralized (Non-DCP) system and the Decentralized (DCP) system. Under these systems, paddy is acquired through different approaches, each serving specific purposes in the overall procurement process.
• In the centralized system, procurement is undertaken by FCI or State Government Agencies, with the quantity procured by State agencies being handed over to FCI for storage and distribution.
• The DCP scheme, introduced in 1997-98, encourages local procurement by State Governments to benefit local farmers, enhance procurement efficiency, and save on transit costs.

8. Minimum Support Prices

• The Minimum Support Price (MSP) for paddy is fixed by the Department of Agriculture & Cooperation, Government of India, based on the recommendations of the CACP.
• The MSP for paddy has seen a consistent increase from KMS 2018-19 to KMS 2022-23, ensuring better remuneration for farmers.

Conclusion

The Government’s procurement policy for paddy is designed to empower farmers by providing fair prices, ensuring food availability for all, and maintaining market stability. Through the implementation of transparent systems, direct benefit transfers, and widespread awareness campaigns, the policy aims to bring transparency, convenience, and financial security to farmers across the country. Your hard work and dedication are the backbone of our nation’s food security, and the Government is committed to supporting you every step of the way.

In a landmark move, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has unveiled a groundbreaking package of schemes for farmers. With a staggering outlay of Rs. 3,70,128.7 crore, these innovative initiatives are designed to revolutionize the agricultural sector, focusing on the overall well-being and economic prosperity of farmers. By promoting sustainable agriculture, these schemes aim to elevate farmers’ income, bolster natural and organic farming practices, rejuvenate soil productivity, and ensure food security.

The Indian government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has announced a comprehensive package of schemes for farmers aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and improving their economic well-being. With a total outlay of Rs. 3,70,128.7 crore, these initiatives focus on boosting farmers’ income, rejuvenating soil productivity, and ensuring food security. Key highlights include the continuation of the Urea Subsidy Scheme, strengthening the Nano Urea ecosystem, promoting natural farming practices, introducing Sulphur Coated Urea (Urea Gold), and expanding Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samruddhi Kendras (PMKSKs). These measures will reduce input costs for farmers, enhance soil health, protect the environment, and increase agricultural productivity, ultimately leading to better returns for farmers and a sustainable future for Indian agriculture.

Key Points

1. Urea Subsidy Scheme Continuation: The Urea Subsidy Scheme by the CCEA , ensures that farmers have urea constantly available to at an affordable price of Rs. 242 / 45 kg bag. The subsidy commitment for urea for three years (2022-23 to 2024-25) amounts to a massive Rs. 3,68,676.7 Crore. This measure helps moderate farmers’ input costs, ensuring they need not spend extra for urea purchase, while also driving indigenous production to attain self-sufficiency levels.
2. Protecting Farmers from Rising Fertilizer Prices: In the face of global geopolitical changes and increased raw material costs, fertilizer prices have surged worldwide. However, the Government of India has safeguarded its farmers by augmenting fertilizer subsidies significantly, rising from Rs. 73,067 Crore in 2014-15 to Rs. 2,54,799 Crore in 2022-23, effectively shielding them from steep price hikes.
3. Strengthening Nano Urea Ecosystem: By 2025-26, the country aims to commission eight Nano urea plants, capable of producing 44 Crore bottles, equivalent to 195 LMT of conventional urea. Nano urea releases nutrients gradually, enhancing nutrient use efficiency while being more cost-effective for farmers, ultimately leading to increased crop yield.
4. Atmanirbhar in Urea Production by 2025-26: India’s efforts towards self-sufficiency in urea production by 2025-26 have been bolstered by the establishment and revival of six urea production units across the country. From 225 LMT in 2014-15, indigenous urea production has increased to 284 LMT in 2022-23. This, combined with the implementation of Nano Urea Plants, will reduce India’s reliance on urea imports and pave the way for complete self-sufficiency by 2025-26.
5. PM Programme for Restoration and Sustainable Farming: The introduction of the “PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness Generation, Nourishment and Amelioration of Mother – Earth (PMPRANAM)” incentivizes states and union territories to promote alternate fertilizers and balanced chemical fertilizer use, fostering natural and organic farming practices.
6. Market Development Assistance (MDA) for Organic Fertilizers: To promote organic fertilizers, a budget of Rs. 1451.84 crore has been allocated for Market Development Assistance (MDA) . This initiative aims to facilitate the marketing of Fermented Organic Manures (FOM), Liquid FOM, and Phosphate Rich Organic Manures (PROM) produced through Bio-gas and Compressed Biogas (CBG) Plants under the GOBARdhan initiative. By offering affordable organic fertilizers, this scheme supports farmers in adopting sustainable agricultural practices.
7. Promotion of Natural Farming: Natural farming practices are being promoted through demonstrations and awareness programs involving 6.80 lakh farmers across 425 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs). Curricula for BSc and MSc programs in Natural Farming have been developed to be implemented from the upcoming academic session.
8. Introducing Sulphur Coated Urea (Urea Gold): To address soil sulfur deficiency and save input costs for farmers, Sulphur Coated Urea (Urea Gold) is being introduced for the first time in the country. This innovative urea variant is more cost-effective and efficient than Neem-coated urea, benefitting both farmers and enhancing production and productivity.
9. Expansion of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samruddhi Kendras (PMKSKs):Over one lakh Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samruddhi Kendras (PMKSKs) have been established to provide farmers with a one-stop solution for all their agricultural needs, simplifying access to essential farm inputs.

Benefits of the approved schemes

1. Reduced input costs and increased income for farmers through affordable urea and low-cost Nano urea.
2. Judicious use of chemical fertilizers, leading to improved soil health, higher nutrient efficiency, and a safer environment with reduced soil and water pollution.
3. Resolution of air pollution issues by utilizing crop residue, converting waste into wealth, and promoting a cleaner living environment.
4. Availability of branded organic fertilizers at affordable prices, addressing crop residue management challenges and providing an additional income source for farmers.
5. Improved soil fertility, reduced input costs, and enhanced production and productivity leading to better returns for farmers.
6. Creation of a comprehensive ecosystem that promotes sustainable agriculture practices, restoring soil health, and ensuring food security.

Conclusion

This visionary package of innovative schemes by the Indian government is a significant step towards transforming the agricultural landscape and uplifting the livelihoods of farmers. By focusing on sustainable practices, affordable inputs, and increased self-sufficiency, these initiatives aim to secure a prosperous future for the farming community while safeguarding the environment.

In a remarkable stride towards ensuring food security and controlling inflation, the Government of India is taking proactive measures through the Food Corporation of India (FCI). Recognizing the pivotal role that farmers play in the nation’s progress, the government has unveiled an innovative approach to stabilize prices while bolstering agricultural prosperity. OMSS(D), is set to revolutionize the market dynamics by offloading substantial wheat and rice stocks through E-auctions, creating a win-win scenario for both farmers and consumers.

Overview

The OMSS(D) initiative is strategically designed to strike a harmonious balance between agricultural sustainability and consumer affordability. By releasing 50 LMT (Lakh Metric Tons) of wheat and 25 LMT of rice into the open market, the government is proactively addressing market demand while curbing inflationary pressures. Underpinned by a transparent E-auction mechanism, the initiative ensures fair participation from private entities, fostering healthy competition that benefits the entire nation. Notably, this move is projected to result in a significant reduction in market prices, enhancing the accessibility of these essential grains to all citizens.

Key Points

1. Reserve Price Reduction: Drawing from insightful experiences of previous rice e-auctions, the government has slashed the reserve price by Rs 200/qtl. This strategic step aims to make wheat and rice more economically viable for consumers while fostering increased market participation. The new effective price of Rs 2900/Qtl enhances affordability, ushering in a new era of accessibility.
2. Price Stabilization Fund: The cost of reducing the reserve price is thoughtfully borne from the Price Stabilization Fund, managed by the Department of Consumer Affairs. This ensures that the economic burden is managed seamlessly, allowing the benefits to cascade to both farmers and consumers without compromising stability.
3. Curbing Inflation: In a dynamic market landscape, the government’s decision to offload wheat and rice stocks aligns seamlessly with its commitment to curbing food inflation. By augmenting supply during lean seasons and deficit regions, this approach actively moderates market prices, providing a stable environment for both producers and consumers.
4. Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojna (PM-GKAY): Even as the OMSS(D) takes center stage, the government remains steadfast in its dedication to the welfare of its citizens. The provision of foodgrains to National Food Security Act (NFSA) beneficiaries remains unshaken, ensuring their entitlements are met without charge. This pledge, initiated on January 1, 2023, underscores the government’s commitment to social welfare.
5. Fostering Agricultural Prosperity: The phased offloading of wheat and rice stocks serves multifaceted objectives. It enables the efficient disposal of excess foodgrains, diminishing carrying costs and optimizing resources. Moreover, this strategic approach enhances food supply during lean periods, thus fostering stability and bolstering agricultural resilience.
6. A Vision Realized in 2023: As the calendar year unfolds, the Government of India’s resolute commitment to the OMSS(D) initiative remains steadfast. The phased release of wheat and rice stocks reflects a comprehensive approach to maintaining market equilibrium while safeguarding the interests of both farmers and consumers. By aligning with the strategic reserve prices determined by the government, FCI is set to orchestrate a symphony of stability, affording the nation’s population access to affordable foodgrains.

Conclusion

The OMSS(D) is a resounding testament to the government’s unwavering dedication to fostering a thriving agricultural ecosystem while ensuring affordable food for every citizen. By reducing reserve prices, tapping into the Price Stabilization Fund, and maintaining a delicate balance between supply and demand, this visionary initiative has the potential to revolutionize the market, making quality food accessible to all, while empowering our farmers to thrive.

In a bid to transform the lives of Indian farmers, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme emerges as a beacon of hope. This pioneering Central Sector Scheme is designed to provide invaluable financial support to farmer families across the nation, revolutionizing the agricultural landscape. With an unwavering commitment to eliminate intermediaries and ensure direct benefits, the PM-KISAN scheme leverages technology to empower farmers, driving inclusivity and prosperity in the farming community.

Overview

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme is a revolutionary initiative designed to empower Indian farmers through direct financial assistance. This Central Sector Scheme disburses Rs. 6000 annually in three equal installments directly into the Aadhaar-linked bank accounts of eligible farmer families. Leveraging technology, the scheme has disbursed over Rs. 2.60 Lakhs Crores to more than 11 Crore farmers, with a focus on women farmers too. The scheme’s hallmark features include its global benchmark in Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), the PM-KISAN mobile app with face authentication, and strategic awareness efforts through regional languages and social media.

Key Points

1. Direct Financial Assistance: Within this pioneering initiative, qualifying farmer households receive a yearly financial grant of Rs. 6000, distributed in three uniform installments of Rs. 2000 each. This support directly reflects in their Aadhaar Seeded bank accounts, boosting their financial stability.
2. Technology-Powered Implementation: The PM-KISAN scheme’s implementation harnesses technology to ensure seamless administration and widespread accessibility. With the integration of digital tools, the benefits reach farmers without intermediaries, eliminating corruption and inefficiencies.
3. Empowerment of Women Farmers: The scheme recognizes the pivotal role of women in agriculture by disbursing benefits to over 3 Crore women farmers out of the 11 Crore beneficiaries, driving gender inclusivity and economic empowerment.
4. Massive Financial Disbursement: Over Rs. 2.60 Lakhs Crores have been disbursed by the Government of India to more than 11 Crore farmers since the scheme’s inception. This colossal investment stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to transforming the lives of farmers.
5. Global DBT Benchmark: The PM-KISAN scheme emerges as a global benchmark in Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) initiatives. By directly transferring funds to Aadhaar-linked bank accounts, the scheme bypasses intermediaries, ensuring that farmers reap the full benefits.
6. Aadhaar Utilization for Verification: The scheme operates under the framework of the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and other Subsidies, benefits, and services) Act, 2016, utilizing farmers’ Aadhaar information for verification purposes, including electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC).

7. Digital Evolution: The PM-KISAN mobile app, launched in February 2020, is a game-changer in the scheme’s implementation. With the integration of face authentication in June 2023, the app empowers farmers further, enabling them to complete their e-KYC effortlessly. Key highlights include:
8. User-Friendly Interface: The PM-KISAN mobile app, available on the Google Play Store for Android phones, features a user-friendly interface that simplifies the e-KYC process for farmers.
9. Effortless e-KYC: Through the app, farmers can complete their own e-KYC and extend assistance to up to 100 fellow farmers in their vicinity, fostering a spirit of community empowerment.
10. Government Nodal Officers: State government officials, at district, block, and village levels, can perform e-KYC for 500 farmers using their registered mobile numbers, ensuring efficient and widespread coverage.
11. Digital Consent and Face Scanning: To enhance security and privacy, the facial e-KYC process requires farmers to provide digital consent before their facial data is scanned, ensuring data protection.
12. Regional Language Messages: To reach farmers across linguistic barriers, the scheme sends text messages in regional languages, ensuring that every beneficiary is informed and engaged at different stages.
13. Social Media Engagement: Leveraging platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube, both Central and State Governments interact with farmers, disseminating information about eligibility, verification processes, and benefits.

Conclusion

In the era of technology, the PM-KISAN scheme stands tall as a transformative force for India’s farming community. By utilizing cutting-edge digital tools, the scheme empowers farmers, eliminates intermediaries, and ensures direct financial assistance, marking a significant step toward an inclusive and prosperous agricultural landscape. With over 2.60 Lakhs Crores disbursed and more than 11 Crore farmers benefiting, the PM-KISAN scheme is a testament to the government’s commitment to the welfare of its farmers. Through digital empowerment, the scheme heralds a new dawn for Indian agriculture, promising a brighter future for those who feed the nation.

The Government is taking decisive steps to ensure the availability of Tur in the Indian market and maintain its affordability for consumers. By releasing Tur from the national buffer through online auctions, the authorities are proactively managing stocks until imported supplies arrive. This measure, directed by the Department of Consumer Affairs, is aimed at bolstering the available stocks for milling into Tur Dal, benefiting consumers across the country. Let’s explore the overview of this strategic plan and its impact on the agricultural community and consumers alike.

Overview

The Indian government’s decision to release Tur from the national buffer in a controlled manner through online auctions. This move aims to ensure the availability of Tur Dal for consumers until imported stocks arrive in the market, while also curbing hoarding and maintaining affordable prices. The implementation of stock limits and strict monitoring of stock disclosure on the portal is emphasized to prevent violations and maintain transparency in the process.

Key points

1. Calibrated Release of Tur:The Government has decided to release Tur from the national buffer in a methodical and targeted manner. This approach aims to effectively manage the available stocks until imported supplies arrive in the Indian market.
2. Online Auction for Millers:To augment the stocks available for milling into Tur Dal, the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation (NAFED) and National Cooperative Consumers Federation (NCCF) have been directed to dispose of Tur through online auctions. Eligible millers will participate in these auctions, contributing to the steady availability of Tur Dal for consumers.
3. Impact-based Quantities and Frequency:The quantities being auctioned and the frequency of these auctions will be carefully calibrated, considering their potential impact on the availability of Tur at affordable prices for consumers.
4. Essential Commodities Act Implementation: On 2nd June 2023, the Government took decisive action against hoarding and unscrupulous speculation by invoking the Essential Commodities Act of 1955. In line with this measure, stock limits were enforced on Tur and Urad for all states and Union Territories until 31st October 2023. This step aimed to ensure market stability and prevent any unfair practices related to these essential commodities.
5. Prescribed Stock Limits: The stock limits applicable to various entities involved in the trade of Tur and Urad are as follows:

• • • • Wholesalers: 200 MT
      • Retailers: 5 MT
      • Retail outlets (each): 5 MT
      • Big chain retailers (depot): 200 MT
      • Millers: Millers are required to maintain stock limits equivalent to either the last three  months of production or 25% of their annual installed capacity, whichever amount is higher.

6. Mandatory Stock Declaration: All entities falling under the purview of the stock limits order are required to declare their stock positions on the Department’s designated portal.
7. Robust Monitoring Mechanism: The Department of Consumer Affairs and State Governments are actively monitoring the implementation of the stock limit order and the stock disclosure status on the portal. This includes cross-checking data from Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC), State Warehousing Corporations (SWCs), and stocks pledged with banks.
8. Strict Action against Violators: The State Governments are diligently monitoring prices within their respective territories and verifying the stock positions of entities involved in stock-holding. Strict action will be taken against those found in violation of the stock limits order.

conclusion

These proactive measures by the Government are aimed at ensuring a steady supply of Tur in the market and safeguarding consumers’ interests. Farmers play a crucial role in meeting the demand for essential commodities like Tur, and the Government’s efforts will continue to support the agricultural community in contributing to the nation’s well-being.

1. Nano Fertilizers Revolutionize Agriculture

In a groundbreaking development, IFFCO has embarked on the commercial production of Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) from March 8, 2023, at its Kalol plant, marking a significant stride in the field of nano fertilizers. This production is set to expand further with two additional plants in Kandla and Paradeep. Furthermore, Coromondal International Limited (CIL) has established a state-of-the-art Nano DAP production facility in Andhra Pradesh, boasting an impressive manufacturing capacity of 4 crore bottles (1 liter each) per year. While the Government of India is not directly involved in the establishment of Nano Urea Plants, IFFCO has taken the initiative to set up three such plants in Kalol, Phulpur, and Aonla, with a cumulative capacity of 17 crore bottles. These innovations promise to revolutionize agriculture by enhancing nutrient utilization efficiency and reducing environmental impact.

2. Cocoponics: A Game-Changer in Hydroponics Farming

Hydroponics farming takes a leap forward with the introduction of “Cocoponics” by the ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticulture Research (IIHR) in Bengaluru. This revolutionary hydroponic variant employs cocopeat as a substrate for growing vegetables and has shown remarkable success across various vegetable crops. Cocoponics not only conserves water but also enables precise nutrient delivery to plants, resulting in higher yields and healthier produce. This innovation signifies a significant step toward sustainable and efficient agriculture in India.

3. Bhu-Vision: Transforming Agriculture with IoT

Agriculture enters the digital age with the introduction of Bhu-Vision, an IoT-based automated soil testing and agronomy advisory platform. Launched at ICAR-IIRR, Hyderabad, Bhu-Vision conducts 12 crucial soil parameter tests in just 30 minutes, providing farmers and stakeholders with quick and accurate results through mobile-based soil health cards. This technology promises to revolutionize soil management practices, improve crop yields and contribute to the nation’s soil health map, ultimately enhancing our understanding of the agricultural landscape and promoting sustainable farming practices.

4. Onion Buffer Surges to 5 Lakh MT

In a strategic move to ensure food security and price stability for consumers, the Indian government has increased the onion buffer stock to an impressive 5 lakh metric tonnes. This decision comes after successfully achieving the initial procurement target of 3 lakh metric tonnes. With the Department of Consumer Affairs directing NCCF and NAFED to procure an additional 1 lakh tonne each, this surplus aims to meet the country’s onion demand while ensuring calibrated disposal to major consumption centers.

5. Basmati Rice: MEP and Export Duty

In an effort to regulate domestic prices ahead of key state elections, the government has imposed a minimum export price (MEP) of $1,200 per tonne on basmati rice shipments. Additionally, a 20% export duty on non-basmati parboiled rice exports has been put into effect, with these measures set to remain valid until October 15, 2023. These steps seek to strike a balance between facilitating exports and maintaining stable prices in the domestic market.

6. Center Revisits GM Mustard Decision

In a significant policy shift, the Centre has requested the Supreme Court to withdraw its oral undertaking from November 2022, where it pledged not to proceed with the commercial cultivation of Genetically Modified (GM) mustard in India. This development marks a potential revaluation of the stance on GM crops and their role in Indian agriculture, sparking discussions and debates in the agricultural sector.

7. APEDA Facilitates Fresh Pomegranate Export to the USA

Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), operating under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has achieved a remarkable feat by facilitating the export of the first trial shipment of fresh pomegranates to the USA via air. This milestone was made possible through collaboration with various entities, including the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) of India, the US’s Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (US-APHIS), Maharashtra State Agricultural Marketing Board (MSAMB), ICAR-National Research Centre on Pomegranate, Solapur (NRC-Solapur), and others. The successful export, carried out by APEDA-registered ‘INI Farms,’ underscores India’s potential in global fruit markets.

8. Cott-Ally App: Empowering Cotton Farmers

The Cotton Corporation of India Limited (CCI) has introduced the “Cott-Ally” mobile app, exclusively designed for cotton farmers. This digital initiative aims to maximize the utilization of digital media among farmers, particularly in the cotton farming sector. It facilitates direct interaction and outreach with cotton farmers in their regional languages, ensuring that they benefit from government schemes and information, ultimately enhancing productivity and livelihoods in the cotton industry.

9. DNA Testing Revolutionizes the Cotton Industry

The Union Minister of Textiles, Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, has presided over significant developments in the cotton value chain. A project to develop cotton markers for DNA testing, in collaboration with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-National Botanical Research Institute (CSIR-NBRI), is set to revolutionize the cotton industry. This initiative not only promises to enhance the traceability, certification, and branding of premium Indian Cotton but also adds significant value to the entire cotton value chain. Additionally, efforts to brand premium Indian Cotton, such as Kasturi Cotton India, are being recognized for their potential to boost the cotton sector’s overall value and market presence.

Empowering the backbone of our nation, the farmers, has always been a top priority for the Central Government. To ensure that sugarcane farmers receive their dues promptly and without any hardship, the government has implemented various policy interventions over the years. These steps have not only stabilized the sugar industry but also created a positive impact on the lives of farmers across the country.

Overview

In the pursuit of easing the burden of outstanding dues for sugarcane farmers, the Central Government has taken strategic measures that encompass fair pricing, financial assistance to mills, and the diversion of surplus sugar for ethanol production. These interventions have led to significant progress, with a substantial percentage of dues being cleared for the sugar seasons up to 2020-21. Furthermore, the powers to monitor and take action against payment delays have been entrusted to the State Governments, ensuring timely disbursement of dues.

Key Points

1. Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP):

• The Central Government fixes the Fair and Remunerative Price of sugarcane, considering various factors.
• This move ensures that farmers receive fair compensation for their produce.

2. Minimum Selling Price of Sugar:

• To prevent falling ex-mill prices of sugar and the accumulation of cane arrears, the Minimum Selling Price of sugar was fixed.
• It was initially set at ₹29/kg (effective from 07-06-2018) and later revised to ₹31/kg (effective from 14-02-2019).

3. Financial Assistance to Mills:

• The government extended financial assistance of over ₹18,000 crore to sugar mills over seven years (from sugar season 2014-15 to 2020-21).
• This resulted in the clearance of farmers’ dues, providing them with much-needed relief.

4. Ethanol Production from Surplus Sugar:

• Encouraging the diversion of surplus sugar to ethanol production proved beneficial for sugar mills.
• Improved financial conditions of mills enabled them to clear cane dues more promptly.

5. Significant Dues Clearance:

• As a result of these concerted efforts, approximately 99.9% of cane dues up to sugar seasons 2020-21 have been cleared.
• For the previous sugar season 2021-22, more than 99.9% of cane dues have been cleared.
• As of 17th July 2023, around 91.6% of cane dues for the current Sugar Season 2022-23 have been cleared.

6. Continuous Improvement:

• According to the report submitted by the Minister of State for the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, there has been a consistent decline in outstanding cane arrears over the past five years.
• State Governments have been delegated the authority to monitor cane price payments and take suitable action in case of payment delays.

Conclusion

The Central Government’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of sugarcane farmers has resulted in remarkable progress in clearing dues. Through thoughtful policy interventions, financial assistance, and the promotion of ethanol production, the government has created a conducive environment for the sugar industry and, most importantly, has alleviated the hardships faced by farmers. With State Governments actively monitoring payment positions, the journey towards timely and fair compensation continues. As we move ahead, it is heartening to witness the positive impact of these initiatives, ensuring that our farmers’ hard work and dedication are duly rewarded.