New Delhi, Oct 1 (UNI) The union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, today approved the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses, a landmark initiative aimed at boosting domestic pulse production and achieving self-sufficiency by 2030-31.
Addressing media, union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that the mission will be implemented over six years from 2025-26 to 2030-31 with an estimated investment of Rs 11,440 crore.
India, the world’s largest producer and consumer of pulses, has witnessed a growing demand driven by rising incomes and changing dietary patterns. However, domestic production has lagged, leading to increased imports. The Mission seeks to reverse this trend by raising production to 350 lakh tonnes by 2030-31, asserted the Minister.
Key features of the Mission include the distribution of 88 lakh free seed kits, development of high-yielding, pest-resistant, and climate-resilient pulse varieties, and the establishment of 1,000 processing units to reduce post-harvest losses. The Mission also aims to expand pulse cultivation by 35 lakh hectares, focusing on rice fallow and other diversifiable lands, said Vaishnaw.
To ensure farmer support and price stability, 100% procurement of Tur, Urad, and Masoor pulses will be undertaken over the next four years at Minimum Support Prices through agencies such as NAFED and NCCF.
The initiative is expected to benefit around two crore farmers by enhancing access to improved seeds, infrastructure, assured procurement, and capacity building.
The Mission also aligns with environmental sustainability goals by promoting climate-resilient farming practices and improving soil health, said the Minister.
