Welcome to the world of millets, where health meets taste! the first-of-its-kind ‘Millets Experience Centre (MEC)’ was inaugurated at Dilli Haat, INA, New Delhi. This visionary initiative, was led by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in collaboration with NAFED, aimed to raise awareness about millets and encourage their adoption among the general public. As we celebrate the International Year of Millets (IYM 2023), India takes center stage in championing millets as a crop that benefits farmers, the environment, and consumers alike.

Overview

The Millets Experience Centre (MEC) at Dilli Haat was a consumer-oriented establishment that showcases the dietary benefits of millets while popularizing them as a nutritional powerhouse. Here, visitors could indulge in a unique dining experience, savoring a variety of millet-based dishes like dosa and pasta. Additionally, the MEC offered a delightful shopping experience, allowing customers to purchase ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook products from local millet start-ups. This convergence of gastronomic delights and retail therapy made the MEC an all-encompassing destination for millet enthusiasts.

Key Bullet Points

1. The United Nations General Assembly has declared the year 2023 as the International Year of Millets (IYM 2023), with India at the forefront of the celebrations.
2. The Government of India, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has been actively promoting millets through various initiatives, starting with the declaration of the National Year of Millets in 2018.
3. The Millets Experience Centre (MEC) at Dilli Haat served as a stepping stone towards India’s aspiration of becoming a global hub for millets.
4. Dilli Haat, situated in the heart of Delhi, attracted visitors from all around the world, providing an excellent platform to showcase India’s ‘Millet Movement‘.
5. The MEC not only highlights the environmental, health, and economic benefits of millet farming but also promotes millets as a versatile grain through an expansive menu and a wide variety of millet-based products.
6. The government aims to mainstream millets by establishing more Millet Experience Centres in Delhi and other states through partnerships with retail chains, hotels, and the F&B industry.
7. The MEC acted as a catalyst for healthier alternatives, meeting the growing demand from consumers who seek nutritious options.
8. Collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) and NAFED strengthens the promotion of millets and supports the execution of IYM-2023.
9. Local millet-based start-ups contributed to the MEC by offering a diverse range of millet products, promoting healthy snacking, and encouraging customers to adopt millets-centric diets.

Conclusion

As we embark on the International Year of Millets, India is determined to position itself as a global leader in millet cultivation and consumption. The Millets Experience Centre (MEC) at Dilli Haat stands as a testament to this commitment, providing a platform to explore the wonders of millets. With a focus on health, taste, and sustainability, the MEC is set to revolutionize the way we perceive and embrace millets. Join us on this exciting journey as we discover the remarkable potential of millets and witness the ‘Millet Movement’ unfold before our eyes.

As part of Aazadi Ka Amrit Mahostav, an initiative celebrating India’s freedom and progress, the Union Cabinet Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri Parshottam Rupala, was set to launch the Nationwide AHDF KCC Campaign for 2023-24. The launch event, scheduled for 3rd May 2023, was conducted virtually, allowing the minister to interact with beneficiaries through Common Service Centers (CSC) and the State Animal Husbandry Department.

Overview

The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, in collaboration with the Department of Fisheries and the Department of Financial Services, organized the Nationwide AHDF KCC Campaign from 1st May 2023 to 31st March 2024. The primary objective of this campaign was to ensure that all eligible animal husbandry, dairy, and fishery farmers have access to the Kisan Credit Card, a valuable financial tool. The campaign’s guidelines were issued to the states on 13.03.2023, accompanied by instructions to banks and state governments by the Department of Financial Services.

Key Points on AHDF KCC Campaign

1. Since June 2020, the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, in collaboration with the Department of Financial Services, has been actively engaged in organizing a series of campaigns. These initiatives are specifically designed to extend the valuable Kisan Credit Card (KCC) facilities to eligible farmers involved in animal husbandry and fisheries.
2. During the previous campaign held from 15.11.2021 to 15.03.2023, over 27 lakh fresh KCCs were sanctioned to Animal Husbandry and Fishery Farmers, providing them with crucial credit facilities for their working capital needs.
3. The Nationwide AHDF KCC Campaign involves organizing District Level KCC Camps every week, where the KCC Coordination Committee, led by the Lead District Manager (LDM), reviews applications sourced by officials from the State Animal Husbandry and Fisheries departments.
4. Since June 2020, the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, in partnership with the Department of Financial Services, has been actively spearheading multiple campaigns aimed at facilitating the provision of Kisan Credit Cards to eligible farmers engaged in animal husbandry and fisheries activities.
5. Common Service Centers play a vital role in spreading awareness about the campaign, with approximately 1 lakh farmers participating virtually in the awareness program.
6. District Level KCC Camps were organized every week during the campaign, allowing officials from the State Animal Husbandry and Fisheries departments to scrutinize applications on the spot.
7. The campaign emphasizes the importance of financial inclusion and empowerment of farmers in these sectors, contributing to their overall growth and prosperity.

Conclusion

The upcoming Nationwide AHDF KCC Campaign for 2023-24 holds great importance as it signifies a remarkable stride towards expanding the accessibility of the Kisan Credit Card facility. Under the esteemed leadership of Union Cabinet Minister Shri Parshottam Rupala, this campaign aims to cater to the needs of small landless farmers engaged in animal husbandry and fisheries activities, ensuring they have access to the vital financial resources provided by the Kisan Credit Card. This campaign, organized by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, along with the Department of Fisheries and the Department of Financial Services, aims to provide essential financial support to eligible farmers across the country. Through virtual interactions and District Level KCC Camps, the campaign will ensure that farmers are aware of and can avail the benefits of the Kisan Credit Card, fostering their growth and contributing to the overall development of the agriculture sector.

Agriculture, the backbone of our nation, is a vital sector that sustains millions of farmers and contributes significantly to our economy. The government recognizes the crucial role of farmers and has taken proactive measures to enhance their income and well-being. In line with this vision, several policies, reforms, and programs have been implemented to empower farmers and uplift their economic status.

Overview

The Government of India, acknowledging the importance of doubling farmers’ income, formed an Inter-Ministerial Committee in 2016. This committee extensively examined the challenges faced by farmers and recommended strategies to achieve this goal. The committee’s final report, submitted in 2018, outlined various policies, reforms, and programs aimed at doubling farmers’ income.

To ensure the successful implementation of these strategies, the government has significantly increased budget allocations for the agriculture sector. The budget allocation for the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying has grown over 4.35 times from 2013-14 to 2023-24.

Important key points

1. Income support through PM KISAN: The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM KISAN) scheme provides income support to farmers, offering Rs. 6,000 annually in three installments. Over 11 crore farmers have received a total of more than Rs. 2.24 lakh crore under this scheme.
2. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): Launched in 2016, PMFBY addresses issues like high premium rates and reduced sum insured. Farmers have enrolled in large numbers, with over 37.66 crore applications and claims amounting to more than Rs. 1,30,185 crore being paid to farmers against a premium of Rs. 25,174 crore.
3. Institutional credit for agriculture: The government has increased institutional credit for the agriculture sector, aiming to reach Rs. 18.5 lakh crore in 2022-23. Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) have been extended to Animal Husbandry and Fisheries farmers, facilitating their short-term working capital needs.
4. Minimum Support Price (MSP): The government has fixed the MSP for various crops at one-and-a-half times the cost of production since 2018-19. This ensures farmers receive a fair price for their produce. The MSP for crops like Paddy and Wheat has witnessed significant increases over the years.
5. Promotion of organic farming: Initiatives like Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) and Mission Organic Value Chain Development in North East Region (MOVCDNER) promote organic farming. These programs have covered substantial areas and benefited a large number of farmers.
6. Per Drop More Crop: The Per Drop More Crop scheme focuses on enhancing water use efficiency and productivity through micro-irrigation technologies. Approximately 72 lakh hectares have been covered under micro-irrigation through this scheme.
7. Promotion of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs): The government has launched a central sector scheme to form and promote 10,000 new FPOs. These organizations empower farmers by providing them with collective strength, access to resources, and better market linkages.
8. National Beekeeping and Honey Mission: Launched as part of the Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, this mission aims to increase crop productivity through pollination and promote honey production as an additional source of income. Significant funding has been assigned for the development of the beekeeping sector.
9. Agricultural mechanization and farm machinery: The government has encouraged the adoption of modern farm machinery and equipment to increase efficiency and productivity. Subsidies and financial assistance are provided to farmers for purchasing machinery like tractors, harvesters, and seeders.
10. Soil Health Card: The Soil Health Card scheme provides farmers with information about the nutrient status of their soil, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding fertilizer application. Over 18.72 crore soil health cards have been distributed to farmers.
11. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY): RKVY aims to provide flexibility and autonomy to states in planning and implementing agricultural development programs. It supports various initiatives such as crop diversification, technology dissemination, and infrastructure development.
12. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY): PMKSY focuses on expanding irrigation coverage and improving water-use efficiency. It includes schemes like Har Khet Ko Pani and Per Drop More Crop, aiming to increase agricultural productivity through efficient water management.
13. e-NAM (National Agricultural Market): E-NAM is an online trading platform that integrates agricultural markets across the country. It facilitates transparent price discovery and provides farmers with better access to markets, reducing intermediaries and ensuring fair prices
14. Blue Revolution: Blue Revolution encompasses the development and management of fisheries and aquaculture in India. Various schemes promote sustainable aquaculture, fish production, and infrastructure development in coastal and inland areas.
15. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY): PMKSY aims to create modern infrastructure for the food processing industry. It includes schemes like Mega Food Parks, Cold Chain Infrastructure, and Agro-Processing Clusters, fostering value addition, reducing wastage, and boosting farmers’ income.
16. Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA): PM-AASHA ensures remunerative prices to farmers by providing a comprehensive procurement mechanism. It has three components and these components work together to provide farmers with a comprehensive support system, guaranteeing them adequate compensation for their agricultural produce.
17. Agriculture Export Policy: The government has formulated an Agriculture Export Policy to boost agricultural exports and promote global trade. It focuses on creating an enabling environment for farmers, processors, and exporters, enhancing competitiveness in the international market.
18. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan-Dhan Yojana (PM-KMY): PM-KMY is a voluntary pension scheme for small and marginal farmers. It provides financial security to farmers in their old age by ensuring a monthly pension after attaining 60 years of age.
19. Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs): KVKs are agricultural science centers that serve as knowledge and resource hubs for farmers. They provide training, demonstrations, and technical support on modern agricultural practices, enabling farmers to adopt new technologies and improve their livelihoods.

Conclusion

The government’s unwavering commitment to doubling farmers’ income is evident through its comprehensive policies, reforms, and programs. With increased budget allocation, income support schemes, credit facilities, and promotion of organic farming, the aim is to uplift farmers and create sustainable agricultural practices, leading to a brighter future for the farming community.

Welcome to the Summit on Farm Machinery Technology, a platform organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Tractor and Mechanization Association (TMA), dedicated to empowering farmers with innovative technology and machinery. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Indian government is committed to ensuring that small farmers, who make up about 85 percent of the country’s farming community, benefit from technological advancements in agriculture. With an investment of Rs. 6120.85 crore from 2014-15 to 2022-23 and the distribution of over 15.24 lakh farm machinery and equipment at subsidized rates, the government aims to enhance productivity and efficiency in the agricultural sector.

Overview

The Summit on Farm Machinery Technology is a significant gathering of stakeholders, including Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), policy planners, suppliers, and product development firms, all focused on revolutionizing Indian agriculture. The conference aims to highlight the government’s efforts in promoting agricultural mechanization, training programs, and the introduction of groundbreaking initiatives to empower farmers. The Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, graced the event as the Chief Guest, emphasizing the importance of technology in transforming the agricultural landscape. This initiative is part of the larger vision led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, ensuring progress and prosperity for farmers across the country.

Key Points on Summit on Farm Machinery Technology

1.  The Central Farm Machinery Training and Testing Institute (CFMTTI) in Budni, Madhya Pradesh, has implemented a new system that reduces the testing time for tractors to a maximum of 75 working days, thereby streamlining the process.
2. The Central Government has trained 1.64 lakh workers through its four authorized test centers, enhancing their skills and expertise in agricultural machinery.
3. The introduction of the Agricultural Infrastructure Fund, with a staggering worth of Rs. 1 lakh crore, has seen the approval of projects worth Rs. 14,000 crore, significantly benefiting farmers.
4. The promotion of Kisan drones, accompanied by the introduction of a drone policy and subsidies, is empowering farmers,
5. Subsidies for farmers reigning from SC-ST categories and women farmers are being provied. Crop-specific standard operating procedures (SOPs) for pesticide application using drones have also been issued.
6. Acknowledging the vital role of agriculture in the country’s economy, Shri Tomar emphasized that India is a global leader in agricultural products. This success is attributed to the hard work of farmers, contributions from scientists and the industry, and farmer-friendly government policies supported by technology.
7. To meet the challenges of a growing population and India’s increasing global importance, a roadmap must be prepared, considering the evolving political landscape. The government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Modi, is committed to this goal, supported by a strong resolution and noble intent.
8. India has witnessed a remarkable work culture transformation since 2014, instilling hope in the nation and the world. The government’s initiatives have propelled India ahead of countries like America, Japan, and Germany in cashless transactions.
9. Utilizing wastelands for cultivation and attracting the younger generation to agriculture are priorities for the government.
10. The government has increased farmers’ access to markets through e-NAM mandis and is bridging gaps in the agriculture sector. Over Rs. 1.5 lakh crore packages have been allocated for agriculture and allied sectors to further boost growth. 
11. The government encourages the adoption of technologies like micro-irrigation to maximize water savings and improve overall efficiency.

Conclusion

The Summit on Farm Machinery Technology has showcased the government’s commitment to empowering small farmers and revolutionizing Indian agriculture through technological advancements. This Summit brings together key stakeholders, including Original Equipment Manufacturers, policy planners, suppliers, and product development firms, to drive agricultural transformation in India. With investments, training programs, and initiatives, the summit has paved the way for increased productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in farming practices. By embracing innovation and providing access to modern machinery, the summit reinforces the vision of a prosperous and technology-driven future for the Indian agricultural sector.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the launch of the IFFCO Nano DAP (liquid) product brings a significant change to the agricultural sector of India. This innovative product aims to make farmers prosperous and achieve self-reliance in agriculture and fertilizer production. The introduction of liquid Nano DAP and Nano urea offers a more effective alternative to granulated urea and DAP, with multiple benefits for farmers and the environment. 

Overview 

The approval for Nano urea was given by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in February 2021, and the infrastructure to produce 17 crore Nano urea bottles has been established in India by 2023. Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah encourages farmers to adopt liquid Nano urea and DAP for enhanced results compared to granular fertilizers. IFFCO has played a crucial role in bridging the gap between scientific research and practical implementation through its ‘lab to land’ approach, bringing advanced agriculture practices to the fields. The import of Urea has been reduced by 7 lakh metric tonnes in 2021 -22, thanks to the efforts of IFFCO, inspiring other cooperatives to explore new areas and contribute to self-reliance. The cooperative spirit of “mass production by masses” has been upheld by IFFCO, ensuring that the benefits of agricultural advancements reached the masses. 

Key Points

1. Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah launches IFFCO Nano DAP(liquid) to promote self-reliance on fertilizer production and enhance farmers’ prosperity. 
2. The use of liquid dap improves both the quality and quantity of crop production while conserving the land and reducing health risks associated with chemical fertilizers. 
3. Liquid fertilizers minimize land contamination and promote the growth of earthworms, contributing to natural farming practices and soil conservation. 
4. This Revolutionary step in agriculture will lead India towards self-sufficiency in food production and fertilizers, benefiting the majority of the population engaged in agriculture-related activities. 
5. Cooperative societies like IFFCO and KRIBHCO have played a significant role in India’s self-reliance on fertilizer element production, following the mantra “mass production by masses”. 
6. IFFCO’s commissioning of 3 urea plants in a single year demonstrates they are committed to scientific research and practical application in agriculture. 
7. The introduction of liquid Nano DAP and Nano urea has reduced consumption and import by 6.3 crore urea bags, resulting and significant savings for the country. 
8. The goal is to reduce granular DAP usage by 90 lakh metric tons through liquid DAP benefiting both the economy and the environment. 
9. Strengthening primary agriculture credit societies(PACS) is a priority for the Ministry of Corporation, with plans to create new multi-dimensional PACS in 2 lakh panchayats over the next 5 years. 
10. IFFCO’s extensive experience and dedication to cooperative principles have made them a driving force in the Cooperative environment, contributing to the sector’s growth and income improvement.

Conclusion

The launch of the IFFCO Nano DAP (liquid) marks a significant milestone in India’s agriculture sector. By promoting the use of liquid fertilizers, farmers can achieve better heels, conserve land, and reduce health risks. IFFCO’s commitment to scientific research, cooperation, and self-reliance set an example for other cooperatives to explore new areas. With continued advancements and support from the government, India’s agriculture sector is poised for future growth, benefiting farmers and ensuring food security for the nation.

The National Institute for Transforming India(NITI) Aayog, a policy think tank of the Indian government, recently released a report titled “Promoting millets in diets: Best practices across States /UTs of India”. The report aims to revive and mainstream millets in the diets of the Indian population. Millets are highly nutritional, environmentally sustainable crops that have been overlooked in recent years due to the introduction of other crops. This report highlights the importance of incorporating millets into diets and also presents a comprehensive list of good practices and innovative approaches in millet production, processing, and consumption.

Overview

The NITI Aayog report titled “Promoting millets in Diets: Best Practices across States / UTs of India” highlights the significance of millets in the value chain, including production, processing, and consumption. The report focuses and ecological stability, health benefits, and nutritional security offered by millet. It provides insights into 3 key themes- state missions and initiatives, the inclusion of millets in integrated child development services (ICDS), and research and development with a focus on technology innovations.

Important Points

The report focuses on three main themes:

1. State missions and initiatives to promote millets – The report highlights the effort of various state governments and organizations in promoting millets, such as implementing millet-based farming systems and establishing millets processing units. 
2. Inclusion of millets in ICDS (Integrated Child Development Services)-The report emphasizes the significance of incorporating millets into the ICDS program which provides supplementary nutrition to children and women. Millets offer immense nutritional benefits and contribute to the well-being of vulnerable populations. 
3. Research and development and use of innovative practices– the report showcases innovative approaches and Technological advancements in millet cultivation, processing, and value addition. It emphasizes the need for research and development to further enhance the productivity and profitability of millet farming. 

Importance of millets:

1. Millets are nutritional crops rich in fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. They offer a range of health benefits and can help combat non-communicable diseases like diabetes.
2.  Millets are environmentally sustainable crops as they require less water and fertilizer as compared to rice and wheat. They are drought tolerant and their cultivation can contribute to water conservation.
3. Millets have a low glycemic index, making them suitable for individuals with diabetes and those seeking to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
4. Millets exhibit medicinal properties and possess anti-inflammatory attributes contributing to the overall well-being.

The role of branding and marketing:

1. With the help of branding and marketing, NITI Aayog prioritized on making millets a superfood and popularize it among masses.
2. Promoting millets through effective marketing strategies can increase demand and create new market opportunities for farmers. 

Government support and leadership:

1. The report acknowledges the strategic leadership provided by the Hon’ble Prime Minister increasing the importance of millets. The government has taken a personal interest in giving millets are respectable status both nationally and globally.
2. Various state missions, policies, and initiatives have been implemented to promote millet, showcasing the commitment of the government to revive millet cultivation.

The potential of millets for national security:

1. With the rise of non-communicable diseases, there is an increasing realization of the potential of millets in ensuring national food security. 
2. Report emphasizes the need to capture people’s imagination and promote millet as a sustainable and nutritious food option in Indian diets.

Conclusion

The NITI Aayog report on promoting millets in diets highlights the environmental sustainability, and nutritional security they offer. Successful state initiatives, inclusion in ICDS, and Research efforts are showcased. The report serves as a valuable resource to promote and incorporate millets, to make them fashionable and popular as a superfood. With Government support and effective branding and marketing strategies, can  regain the position as an integral part of Indian farming and diets, contributing to the overall well-being of the nation.