Union Cabinet Approves Seven Schemes to Boost Farmers’ Incomes and Improve Agriculture [Current Affairs]

In a significant move to enhance the lives of farmers and increase their incomes, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has given its approval to seven comprehensive schemes. These initiatives, with a total outlay of Rs 14,235.30 Crore, aim to revolutionize various aspects of agriculture in India.

1. Digital Agriculture Mission: Harnessing Technology for Agricultural Advancement

The Digital Agriculture Mission, with an outlay of Rs 2,817 crore, is set to leverage technology to transform farmers’ lives. This initiative is based on the structure of Digital Public Infrastructure and comprises two foundational pillars:

Agri Stack

The Agri Stack will serve as a comprehensive database, including:

1. Farmers registry: A centralized database of all farmers in the country.
2. Village land maps registry: Detailed mapping of agricultural land at the village level.
3. Crop Sown Registry: A database tracking the crops sown in different regions.

Krishi Decision Support System

This system will provide farmers with crucial information and tools for decision-making, including:

1. Geospatial data: Detailed geographical information for precise farming.
2. Drought/flood monitoring: Real-time tracking of extreme weather conditions.
3. Weather/satellite data: Accurate weather forecasts and satellite imagery for crop management.
4. Groundwater/water availability data: Information on water resources for efficient irrigation.
5. Modelling for crop yield and insurance: Predictive models to estimate yields and manage risks.

The Digital Agriculture Mission will also incorporate:

• Soil profile analysis: Detailed information on soil health and composition.
• Digital crop estimation: Accurate predictions of crop yields using advanced technologies.
• Digital yield modelling: Sophisticated models to optimize crop production.
• Connect for crop loan: Streamlined access to agricultural financing.
• Modern technologies: Integration of Artificial Intelligence and Big Data for smarter farming.
• Connect with buyers: Direct linkages between farmers and potential buyers.
• Mobile knowledge delivery: Bringing new agricultural knowledge directly to farmers’ mobile phones.

2. Crop Science for Food and Nutritional Security

With an outlay of Rs 3,979 crore, this initiative aims to prepare farmers for climate resilience and ensure food security by 2047. The scheme encompasses:

1. Research and education: Advancing agricultural knowledge through scientific studies and academic programs.
2. Plant genetic resource management: Preserving and utilizing diverse plant genetic materials.
3. Genetic improvement for food and fodder crops: Enhancing crop varieties for better yield and nutrition.
4. Pulse and oilseed crop improvement: Focusing on crucial protein and oil-rich crops.
5. Improvement of commercial crops: Enhancing the quality and yield of cash crops.
6. Research on insects, microbes, pollinators: Studying the ecosystem’s role in agriculture.

3. Strengthening Agricultural Education, Management and Social Sciences

This Rs 2,291 Crore scheme aims to prepare agriculture students and researchers for current challenges:

1. Implemented under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
2. Modernizing agricultural research and education to meet contemporary needs.
3. Aligning with the New Education Policy 2020 for holistic learning.
4. Incorporating latest technologies like Digital DPI, AI, big data, and remote sensing.
5. Including natural farming and climate resilience in the curriculum.

4. Sustainable Livestock Health and Production

With an outlay of Rs 1,702 crore, this scheme aims to increase farmers’ income from livestock and dairy:

1. Animal health management and veterinary education: Improving animal care and professional training.
2. Dairy production and technology development: Enhancing milk production and processing techniques.
3. Animal genetic resource management, production and improvement: Preserving and enhancing livestock breeds.
4. Animal nutrition and small ruminant production: Focusing on proper feed and small livestock development.

5. Sustainable Development of Horticulture

This Rs 1,129.30 crore initiative focuses on increasing farmers’ income from horticulture:

1. Tropical, sub-tropical and temperate horticulture crops: Enhancing production across various climatic zones.
2. Root, tuber, bulbous and arid crops: Improving crops suited for different soil conditions.
3. Vegetable, floriculture, and mushroom crops: Diversifying horticultural production.
4. Plantation, spices, medicinal, and aromatic plants: Developing high-value crops.

6. Strengthening of Krishi Vigyan Kendra

With an outlay of Rs 1,202 crore, this scheme aims to bolster the network of agricultural extension centers, providing farmers with localized knowledge and support.

7. Natural Resource Management

This Rs 1,115 crore initiative focuses on sustainable use of natural resources in agriculture, ensuring long-term productivity and environmental conservation.

In conclusion, these seven schemes represent a comprehensive approach to transforming Indian agriculture. By focusing on technology, education, research, and sustainable practices, the government aims to empower farmers, increase agricultural productivity, and ensure food security for the nation.