Cabinet Approves ₹11,440 Crore Pulses Mission
The Union Cabinet has approved a six-year scheme named Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses, running from 2025-26 to 2030-31, with a total budget of ₹11,440 crore.
Goal of the Mission
The mission aims to raise India’s pulse production to 350 lakh tonnes by 2030-31, reduce dependence on imports, and strengthen food security.
Key Features
- The mission will expand the area under pulses cultivation to 310 lakh hectares, up from present levels.
- Productivity is targeted to rise to about 1,130 kg per hectare from current averages.
- Around 1,000 new processing and packaging units will be established, with subsidies up to ₹25 lakh per unit.
- Certified seed distribution—up to 126 lakh quintals—will reach farmers across 370 lakh hectares.
- The mission plans to introduce climate-resilient and high-yield varieties via multi-location trials.
- For the next four years, 100% procurement of tur, urad, and masoor pulses will be ensured through agencies like NAFED and NCCF for farmers who register under the scheme.
Why It Matters
India is currently the world’s largest producer and consumer of pulses. But production has not kept pace with demand, causing import dependency of around 15–20%. The new mission is intended to reverse that trend and boost farmers’ incomes.
Challenges and Implementation
Success will depend on coordinated efforts among central and state governments, research bodies, and farmer groups. Post-harvest losses, climate risks, and infrastructure gaps also pose hurdles in execution. The plan relies heavily on improved seed systems, infrastructure development, and assured procurement to instill confidence among growers.
