Cabinet Approves Rs 13,966 Crore Initiative to Revolutionize Indian Agriculture and Boost Farmers’ Incomes

In a landmark decision, the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a comprehensive set of seven schemes aimed at transforming the agricultural landscape in India. With a total budget allocation of Rs 13,966 crore, these schemes are designed to enhance the lives and livelihoods of farmers, addressing key areas such as digital agriculture, crop science, education, livestock health, horticulture, and natural resource management.

1. Digital Agriculture Mission

The Digital Agriculture Mission, with a budget of Rs 2,817 crore, is set to modernize Indian agriculture through technology-driven solutions. The mission will focus on:

• Agri Stack: This digital infrastructure includes a farmer registry, village land maps, and a crop sown registry, enabling more efficient service delivery to farmers.
• Krishi Decision Support System: Leveraging geospatial data, weather predictions, and advanced technologies like AI and Big Data, this system will provide farmers with critical insights and connect them directly with buyers.

2. Future Food Security Challenges and Enhance Climate Resilience

To address future food security challenges and enhance climate resilience, the Cabinet has sanctioned Rs 3,979 crore for advancing crop science. Key areas of focus include:

• Research and Education: Strengthening agricultural research and education to meet future demands.
• Genetic Improvement: Enhancing the genetic makeup of food, fodder, pulses, oilseeds, and commercial crops.
• Biodiversity Research: Investigating the role of insects, microbes, and pollinators in agriculture.

This initiative aims to ensure India’s food security by 2047 through robust scientific advancements.

3. Enhancing Agricultural Education and Management

A budget of Rs 2,291 crore has been allocated to modernize agricultural education under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The initiative will align with the New Education Policy 2020, integrating cutting-edge technologies and emphasizing natural farming and climate resilience. The goal is to prepare the next generation of agricultural professionals for contemporary challenges.

4. Sustainable Livestock Health and Production

Recognizing the importance of livestock in augmenting farmers’ incomes, the Cabinet has allocated Rs 1,702 crore for improving livestock health and production. The scheme will focus on:

• Animal Health Management: Enhancing veterinary education and services.
• Dairy Production: Improving dairy production techniques and technologies.
• Genetic Resource Management: Advancing the genetic quality of livestock.
• Animal Nutrition: Developing small ruminants and ensuring adequate nutrition.

5. Horticulture Development for Enhanced Farmer Income

With Rs 860 crore allocated, this initiative aims to boost farmers’ earnings through sustainable horticulture practices, focusing on:

• Diverse Crop Cultivation: Promoting the growth of tropical, sub-tropical, root, tuber, bulbous, and arid crops.
• High-Value Crops: Expanding the cultivation of vegetables, floriculture, mushrooms, and economically significant plants like spices and medicinal herbs.

6. Strengthening Krishi Vigyan Kendras

The Cabinet has earmarked Rs 1,202 crore to fortify Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) across the nation, enabling them to better support farmers through the dissemination of agricultural innovations and knowledge.

7. Natural Resource Management

Finally, with a budget of Rs 1,115 crore, the focus on natural resource management will promote sustainable practices that ensure the long-term health and productivity of vital agricultural resources like soil and water.

Conclusion

These seven schemes represent a holistic approach to advancing Indian agriculture. By emphasizing technology, research, education, and sustainable practices, the government aims to not only uplift the farming community but also secure the nation’s agricultural future. This ambitious initiative promises to make a significant impact on millions of farmers, driving growth and prosperity in the agricultural sector.