Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses (2025–26 to 2030–31)

Syllabus: Economy, Agriculture, Food Security (UPSC Prelims)
Source: PIB

Context

On 11 October 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi. The mission aims to make India self-reliant in pulses by December 2027, reduce import dependence, enhance farmers’ incomes, and strengthen nutritional security.

About the Mission

• Official Name: Dalhan Aatmanirbharta Mission
• Implementation Period: 2025–26 to 2030–31
• Budget: ₹11,440 crore
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare
• Implementation Partners:
  • Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
  • Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs)
  • NAFED & NCCF (for procurement)
  • NITI Aayog (policy & cluster recommendations)
  • National Informatics Centre (NIC) via SATHI portal for seed monitoring

Objectives

• Achieve self-reliance in pulses by scaling production to 350 lakh tonnes by 2030–31.
• Expand pulses cultivation to 310 lakh hectares, including 35 lakh hectares of rice fallows.
• Ensure 100% MSP procurement for Tur (Arhar), Urad, and Masoor for four years.
• Distribute 88 lakh free seed kits and 126 lakh quintals of certified seeds.
• Empower nearly 2 crore farmers through assured prices, technology adoption, and value-chain integration.

Key Features

1. Technology and Seeds

• Launch of SATHI portal for seed authentication, traceability, and lifecycle monitoring.
• Development of high-yielding, pest-resistant, and climate-resilient varieties by ICAR.

2. Value Chain and Processing

• Establish 1,000 processing and packaging units, with a ₹25 lakh subsidy per unit to promote rural employment and reduce post-harvest losses.
• Integration with PM-AASHA ensures price stability and farmer income security.

3. Cluster-Based Approach

• Implementation via “One Block – One Seed Village” model, promoting FPO-led clusters for efficient production and distribution.
• Focus on sustainable practices, including intercropping, soil health management, and mechanization.

4. Nutrition and Welfare Integration

• Incorporation of pulses into PDS, ICDS, and Mid-Day Meal programs to improve protein intake and nutritional security.

Background

• India’s pulses production increased from 192.6 lakh tonnes (2013–14) to 252.38 lakh tonnes (2024–25), a growth of 31%.
• Despite being a leading producer, India imported 47.38 lakh tonnes of pulses in 2023–24, highlighting the need for self-sufficiency.
• Historical government initiatives:
  • All India Coordinated Pulse Improvement Project (1966)
  • National Pulses Development Project (1988–89)
  • Accelerated Pulses Production Programme (A3P, 2010–14)

Operational Strategy

• States will prepare rolling five-year seed production plans under ICAR supervision.
• SATHI portal ensures seed traceability, certification, and quality assurance.
• Emphasis on high-yielding varieties, climate-resilient practices, and early-warning pest management.
• Guaranteed procurement through PM-AASHA strengthens price security and reduces market uncertainty.

Expected Outcomes by 2030–31

• Pulses production: 350 lakh tonnes
• Cultivation area: 310 lakh hectares
• Improved yields: 1,130 kg/ha
• Employment: Rural job creation through processing units
• Import reduction: Strengthened food and economic security
• Nutritional impact: Improved protein intake and reduced malnutrition

Significance

The Mission strengthens India’s food and nutritional security, promotes climate-resilient agriculture, and ensures economic empowerment for farmers. It lays the foundation for a self-reliant, resilient, and productive pulses sector, contributing to Viksit Bharat 2047.