Source: PIB
Context: The Union Cabinet approved the National Pulses Mission (2025–31) with an outlay of ₹11,440 crore to boost pulse production and reduce import dependency.
About National Pulses Mission:
- What it is?
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- A six-year central programme (2025–31) under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare.
- Designed to achieve Aatmanirbharta in pulses, ensuring food and nutritional security.
- Aim:
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- Raise domestic pulse production from 242 lakh tonnes (2024–25) to 350 lakh tonnes by 2030–31.
- Nodal Ministry: Union Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare.
- Term: 2025–26 to 2030–31 (six years).
- Budget allocation: ₹11,440 crore.
- Key Features:
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- Production Boost: Expand area to 310 lakh hectares, with yield target of 1,130 kg/ha.
- Seed Security: Distribution of 126 lakh quintals of certified seeds and 88 lakh free seed kits; monitored through SATHI portal.
- Assured Procurement: 100% procurement of Tur, Urad, and Masoor at MSP for four years.
- Infrastructure Support: 1,000 post-harvest processing units with subsidy up to ₹25 lakh each.
- Research & Innovation: Multi-location trials for climate-resilient and pest-resistant pulse varieties.
- Farmer Training: Capacity-building programmes for adoption of modern techniques.
- Significance:
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- Food & Nutritional Security: Pulses are a vital protein source in Indian diets.
- Import Reduction: Cuts 15–20% import dependency, saving forex.
- Farmer Welfare: Ensures MSP-based income stability and value-chain strengthening.
