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.

The Government of India’s paddy and wheat procurement operations have been running smoothly, bringing good news to the agricultural community. During the Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2022-23, over 830 Lakh Metric Tons (LMT) of paddy has been procured under the Minimum Support Price (MSP) scheme, benefiting more than 1.22 crore farmers with a direct transfer of Rs. 1,71,000 crore into their accounts. Additionally, wheat procurement during the ongoing Rabi Marketing Season (RMS) 2023-24 has exceeded last year’s figures by a significant margin. Let’s explore the key highlights of these successful operations that have ensured a comfortable stock of food grains in Government granaries.

Overview

The Government of India’s commitment to supporting farmers and ensuring food security has resulted in successful paddy and wheat procurement operations. With effective arrangements in place, the paddy procurement for the Kharif Marketing Season 2022-23 has reached an impressive 830 LMT, benefiting a substantial number of farmers and contributing to their financial well-being. Simultaneously, the ongoing wheat procurement for the Rabi Marketing Season 2023-24 has surpassed last year’s figures, providing further support to the agricultural sector.

Key Points

1. Paddy Procurement: During the Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2022-23, the Government of India has procured more than 830 Lakh Metric Tons (LMT) of paddy under the Minimum Support Price (MSP) scheme. This initiative has positively impacted over 1.22 crore farmers across the country.
2. Direct Financial Support: As part of the paddy procurement operations, an impressive MSP outflow of Rs. 1,71,000 crore has been directly transferred into the bank accounts of the beneficiary farmers. This substantial financial support is expected to enhance their economic stability.
3. Rice Delivery Progress: The procurement of paddy has also led to significant progress in rice delivery. Out of the total paddy procurement of 830 LMT (equivalent to 558 LMT in terms of rice), approximately 401 LMT of rice has already been received in the Central Pool as of 19.06.2023. Another 150 LMT of rice is expected to be received soon.
4. Wheat Procurement: Moving to the Rabi Marketing Season (RMS) 2023-24, the progressive procurement of wheat has been commendable, reaching 262 LMT as of 19.06.2023. This figure surpasses the total procurement of wheat during the previous year by a remarkable 74 LMT.
5. Extensive Farmer Support: The ongoing wheat procurement has already benefited about 21.29 Lakh farmers, who have received MSP payments amounting to approximately Rs. 55,680 crores. This substantial financial boost is set to positively impact the rural economy.
6. Leading Procuring States: The states of Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, and Haryana have played a major role in the wheat procurement operations, contributing 121.27 LMT, 70.98 LMT, and 63.17 LMT, respectively. Their proactive efforts have significantly contributed to the overall success of the procurement drive.
7. Record MSP Payments: The combined MSP payment to farmers for the procurement of wheat and paddy this year stands at an impressive Rs. 2,26,829 crore. This marks a notable increase from the total payment of Rs. 2,05,896 crore made in the previous year.
8. Adequate Food Grains Stock: Thanks to the successful procurement operations, the combined stock of wheat and rice in Government granaries has reached a substantial 570 LMT. This comfortable stock position ensures the country’s readiness to meet its food grain requirements and maintain food security.

Conclusion

The Government of India’s proactive efforts in paddy and wheat procurement have yielded remarkable results, benefiting millions of farmers and ensuring food security through a sufficient stock of food grains. These achievements exemplify the government’s unwavering commitment to supporting the agricultural sector and ensuring the well-being of farmers across the nation.

In a significant move, the Government of India has taken measures to ensure an abundant supply of Non-Basmati White Rice in the domestic market while curbing the surge in prices. By amending the Export Policy of this variety from ‘Free with export duty of 20%’ to ‘Prohibited‘ with immediate effect, the government aims to stabilize rice prices and benefit both farmers and consumers.

Overview

Over the past year, the retail prices of Rice have surged by 11.5%, and in the last month alone, they have increased by 3%. To address this concern and make rice affordable for all, the government has undertaken a significant policy change.

Despite the imposition of export duty, the export of Non-Basmati White Rice has risen sharply. From September 2021 to March 2022, exports stood at 33.66 LMT (Lakh Metric Tonnes), but during the same period in 2022-23, it surged to 42.12 LMT. The current financial year (2023-24) has witnessed a further 35% increase, with 15.54 LMT exported from April to June compared to 11.55 LMT in 2022-23.

Important Points

1. Government Update: Effective immediately, the Export Policy for Non-Basmati White Rice has been changed from ‘Free with export duty of 20%’ to ‘Prohibited’.
2. Rising Prices: Domestic rice prices have increased by 11.5% over the past year and 3% in the last month, creating concerns over affordability.
3. Export Duty Implementation: In an effort to control prices and maintain a steady supply of Non-Basmati White Rice in the domestic market, an export duty of 20% was imposed on this variety on 8th September 2022.
4. Factors Behind Export Surge: The surge in exports can be attributed to international market dynamics, including geopolitical scenarios, El Nino influences, and extreme weather conditions in other rice-producing countries, leading to high international prices.
5. Impact on Consumers: Non-Basmati White Rice constitutes approximately 25% of India’s total rice exports. Prohibiting its export will help lower prices in the domestic market, benefiting consumers and ensuring food affordability for all.
6. Farmer-Friendly Policy: While the export policy for Non-Basmati White Rice has changed, there is no alteration in the Export policy of Non-Basmati Rice     (Par Boiled Rice) and Basmati Rice, which constitute the majority of India’s rice exports. This measure ensures that farmers will continue to receive remunerative prices in the international market.

Conclusion

The government’s proactive approach aims to balance the interests of farmers and consumers, fostering food security and stability in the Indian rice market. As farmers, you can continue to thrive with remunerative prices for other rice varieties while consumers can relish the goodness of affordable Non-Basmati White Rice. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to the welfare of farmers and the well-being of every Indian household.

In a groundbreaking move to provide farmers and consumers with accessible and nutritious pulses, Union Minister Shri Piyush Goyal has launched ‘Bharat Dal’. Under this initiative, subsidised Chana Dal will be made available to the public at affordable rates, a major step by the Central Government to ensure food security and health for all. With the conversion of government-held chana stock into chana dal, the benefits will be passed on directly to you, the farmers and consumers.

Overview

It is a brand of subsidised Chana Dal, offered at the rate of Rs 60 per kg for one kg pack and Rs 55 per kg for 30 kg pack. ‘Bharat Dal’ undergoes meticulous milling and packaging processes, meticulously handled by the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation (NAFED), guaranteeing top-notch production and seamless distribution.

You can find ‘Bharat Dal’ at the retail outlets of NAFED in Delhi-NCR, making it easily accessible for consumers in the region. This initiative doesn’t stop at Delhi-NCR; the chana dal is also distributed through outlets of NCCF, Kendriya Bhandar, and Safal, broadening its reach to serve people nationwide. State governments can procure ‘Bharat Dal’ for their welfare schemes, police, jails, and consumer cooperative outlets, further extending its benefits to various segments of society.

Key Points

1. A Staple in India: Chana is one of the most abundantly produced pulses in India, enjoyed in various forms across the nation.
2. Nutrient Powerhouse: Chana is rich in essential nutrients like fibre, iron, potassium, vitamin B, selenium, beta carotene, and choline.These nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being, making them vital for supporting our overall wellness.
3. Combat Anaemia: With its iron content, Chana helps combat anaemia, ensuring a healthier blood profile for all age groups.
4. Blood Sugar Control: Consuming Chana can contribute to better blood sugar regulation, making it an excellent choice for individuals with diabetes or those seeking to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
5. Bone Health: The presence of potassium in Chana contributes to bone health, keeping your skeletal system strong and resilient.
6. Mental Well-being: Chana’s nutritional composition, including vitamin B and choline, supports mental health and cognitive function, promoting a sharp and focused mind.

Chana in Various Forms

• Delicious Snack: Roasted Chana is a popular and healthy snack option that is not only tasty but also packed with essential nutrients.
• Culinary Delights: Chana dal can be used as an alternative to tur dal in curries and soups, adding a delightful nutty flavor to your dishes.
• Namkeens and Sweets: Chana besan is a significant ingredient in namkeens and sweets, bringing that special touch to your favorite treats.

Conclusion

‘Bharat Dal’ is a game-changer for farmers and consumers alike, ensuring that everyone can access affordable and nutritious pulses. With its versatile uses and numerous health benefits, Chana is truly a pulse that stands out. Embrace the goodness of ‘Bharat Dal’ and make it an integral part of your kitchen and meals.

Remember, healthy pulses lead to a healthier and happier you. So, seize this opportunity to savor the flavor of ‘Bharat Dal’ while reaping its incredible nutritional rewards.

The Central Government has taken a significant step to ensure that edible oil remains affordable and accessible to consumers across the nation. In a move to tackle rising prices and provide relief to households, the Basic Import Duty on Edible Oils has been reduced, opening up new possibilities for the agricultural community. This decision, made official through Notification No. 39/2023 – Customs on 14th June, 2023, specifically impacts Refined Soyabean Oil and Refined Sunflower Oil, with the duty dropping from 17.5% to 12.5%, and will be in effect until 31st March, 2024. Let’s explore how this decision will positively affect farmers and consumers alike.

Overview

The Central Government has implemented a reduction in the Basic Import Duty on Refined Soyabean Oil and Refined Sunflower Oil to address the soaring prices of edible oils in the domestic market. As part of their ongoing efforts to curb inflation and make essential commodities affordable, this measure is expected to alleviate the burden on consumers. Import Duties play a crucial role in determining the landed cost of edible oils, which directly influences domestic prices. By reducing these duties, the government aims to ease retail prices and improve the availability of edible oils in the country.

Key Points

1. Reduced Import Duty: The Basic Import Duty on Refined Sunflower Oil  and  Refined Soyabean Oil has been lowered from 17.5% to 12.5% as of 14th June, 2023. This favorable duty rate will remain in effect until 31st March, 2024.
2. Consumer Benefit: With the import duty reduction, the landed cost of edible oils is expected to decrease, translating into lower domestic retail prices. This will be a welcome relief for consumers grappling with high living costs.
3. Previous Measures: In response to the escalating prices of edible oils, the government has proactively implemented measures in the past. In October 2021, recognizing the impact of high international prices on the domestic market, the import duties on Refined Soyabean Oil and Refined Sunflower Oil were substantially reduced from 32.5% to 17.5%. This decision was aimed at mitigating the effects of rising costs and ensuring a stable supply of essential edible oils for consumers within the country.
4. Agricultural Implications: For farmers, this decision could lead to new opportunities. With lower import duties, there may be increased demand for domestically produced edible oils, potentially boosting agricultural output and income in this sector.
5. Monitoring and Distribution: The Department of Food and Public Distribution, under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, is taking charge of monitoring edible oil prices in the country. This ensures that consumers have adequate access to this essential commodity.

Conclusion

As farmers, you play a crucial role in providing the nation with essential commodities like edible oil. The recent reduction in Basic Import Duty on Refined Soyabean Oil and Refined Sunflower Oil is a testament to the government’s commitment to support both farmers and consumers. By making edible oils more affordable and available, this decision paves the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for the agricultural community and the entire nation. Let’s harness this opportunity and work together to ensure a steady supply of edible oils at reasonable prices, benefiting every household in the country.

The National Webinar on ‘Sustainability of Fish Meal Industry and the Livelihoods of Fishermen,’ was organized by the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, Government of India. As part of the ongoing celebration of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, this event aims to shed light on the crucial role fish meal plays in aquaculture and its significance in supporting the livelihoods of fishermen. Join us on this journey to explore the challenges, opportunities, and alternatives in the fish meal industry, fostering sustainable practices for a better future.

Overview

Fish meal serves as a vital protein-rich feed supplement for fish and crustaceans in aquaculture. It is a concentrated source of essential nutrients, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that promote healthy growth in animals. The industry’s sustainability is of utmost importance to ensure the well-being of fish farmers, preserve marine ecosystems, and meet the growing demand for quality fish products. This webinar brought together experts, representatives, and stakeholders from the fisheries community to discuss various aspects of the fish meal industry and its impact on livelihoods and the environment.

Key Points

1. Importance of Fish Meal Industry: Mr. Nissar F. Mohammed, from CLFMA, emphasized the significance of fish meals in aquaculture. He highlighted how utilizing fish waste in fish meal production can reduce water pollution, boost animal immunity, and decrease mortality rates in young animals.
2. Challenges in the Fish Meal Industry: Mr. Mohamed Dawood Sait, President of the Indian Marine Ingredients Association, addressed the issues and challenges faced by the industry. The association plays a pivotal role in promoting the welfare of the fisheries sector and fostering advancements.
3. Fish Meal and Shrimp Feed Industry: Shri A. Indra Kumar, Chairman and Managing Director of Avanti Feed Pvt. Ltd, discussed the growing fish meal and shrimp feed industry, driven by the increasing export demands. He stressed the need for sustainable aquaculture practices to maintain customer trust.
4. Alternatives to Fish Meal in Aqua Feed: Dr. Ashish Kumar Jha, Senior Scientist at Veraval ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, presented alternatives to fish meal, such as insects, leaves, fruits, and seeds. These alternatives address concerns related to overfishing, bycatch, and pollution.
5. Efforts for Juvenile Fishery Mitigation: Dr. A.P. Dineshbabu, the esteemed Principal Scientist at ICAR-CMFRI, has shed light on significant initiatives to tackle juvenile fishery bycatch within Indian Marine Fisheries. He proposed a range of effective strategies, including Juvenile Bycatch Reduction Devices (JBRD),  mesh size regulation, and the implementation of Minimum Legal Size (MLS) guidelines. These measures hold the key to safeguarding young fish and fostering sustainable fishing practices in our marine ecosystems.
6. Minimizing Fish Waste: Shri Ramacharya, Director Fisheries, Government of Karnataka, urged support for the industry, emphasizing that around 12-18% of fish go to waste. He advocated for awareness and policy measures to curb unregulated fishing.
7. Artificial Reefs for Fish Replenishment: Joint Secretary (MF) emphasized the importance of creating awareness and establishing artificial reefs to replenish fish populations, discouraging the capture of juvenile fishes.
8. Interactive Session: The webinar provided a platform for fish farmers and industry representatives to raise queries and doubts, fostering fruitful discussions and clarifications.

Conclusion

The National Webinar on ‘Sustainability of Fish Meal Industry and the Livelihoods of Fishermen’ was a resounding success, with insightful discussions and actionable takeaways. The event brought together experts, stakeholders, and representatives from the fisheries community to address challenges and explore sustainable solutions for the fish meal industry. As we move forward, we commit to developing sectoral strategies and action plans that will safeguard the environment, support fishermen’s livelihoods, and ensure the prosperity of the fisheries sector. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants and speakers for their valuable contributions and to Dr. S. K. Dwivedi for proposing the vote of thanks, closing this enriching webinar. Together, we can build a brighter and more sustainable future for the fish meal industry and the communities it supports.