Government Launches New Policy Initiatives to Enhance Agriculture, Empower Farmers

As part of a significant push towards modernizing the agriculture sector, government has launched several schemes aimed at boosting productivity, enhancing farmer incomes, and promoting sustainable farming practices. These initiatives, approved recently by the Union Cabinet, highlight the government's commitment to creating a robust and resilient agricultural ecosystem.

Clean Plant Programme (CPP)

The Clean Plant Programme, sanctioned on August 9, 2024, with a financial outlay of Rs 1,765.67 crore, aims to revolutionize horticulture. By providing disease-free planting materials and encouraging the adoption of climate-resilient varieties, the CPP is set to improve crop yields and ensure the sustainability of horticultural practices.

Digital Agriculture Mission (DAM)

On September 2, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the Digital Agriculture Mission, allocating Rs 2,817 crore, including ₹1,940 crore from the central government. This ambitious umbrella scheme is designed to support digital agriculture initiatives such as the Digital General Crop Estimation Survey (DGCES) and the development of Digital Public Infrastructure, enabling technology-driven decision-making for farmers and stakeholders.

Agriculture Infrastructure Fund Expansion

The progressive expansion of the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), approved on August 28, 2024, aims to strengthen agricultural infrastructure across the country. With a broadened scope that includes individual beneficiaries and the integration of sustainable energy projects like PM-Kusum ‘A’, the initiative seeks to enhance community farming and processing capabilities, bolstering rural economies.

National Mission on Edible Oils – Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds)

Approved on October 3, 2024, with a seven-year implementation plan and a budget of Rs 10,103 crore, NMEO-Oilseeds aims to boost domestic oilseed production and reduce dependency on imports. This mission is a step toward achieving self-reliance in edible oils, ensuring long-term food security.

National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)

The standalone NMNF scheme, approved on November 25, 2024, with a total outlay of Rs 2,481 crore, promotes natural farming practices. It emphasizes reducing dependency on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, fostering eco-friendly agricultural techniques.

The government has also rolled out supplementary programs, including the National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS), AgriSURE Fund for Startups, and the Krishi Nivesh and Krishi-DSS Portals. The introduction of a Voluntary Carbon Market (VCM) further highlights India's commitment to sustainable agriculture.

These initiatives collectively aim to position India as a leader in innovative, sustainable, and inclusive agricultural practices, empowering farmers while ensuring food security and economic growth.