Govt Sets a Record Production of 332MT Millets, OilSeed, Pulses & Other; Despite EL Nino’s Effect

The government estimates to produce a record of 332MT of millet, Pulses, Oilseed, and others for 2023-24, which is estimated a 2.6 per cent more as compared to 2022-23. As per the reports, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MAFW) said that we are set to produce 332MT of foodgrains including 44MT of oilseed, 29.25MT of pulses, and 17MT of pulses from July 2023 to June 2024.

The report also says that the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare had developed strategic strategies regarding EL Nino’s effect. As per a statement, the ministry said that they are to adopt the appropriate agronomic practices. Additionally, they will also strategize to enhance the area through crop diversification, intercropping, and other methods.

Ashok Gulati, an agriculture economist said that the yearly production is marginal and it is great that government is taking part in adopting preventive measures amid El Nino’s impact. He also said that there has been a loss in foodgrain production due to drought; from 17 per cent (2002-2003) to 5 per cent in 2014-2015.

From the year 2001 to 2020, India observed seven El Nino years. Among these, 2003, 2005, 2009-10, and 2015-16 are droughts. Also, it has affected summer-season farm and kharif output by 16%, 8%, 10% and 3%.

Narendra Singh Tomar (Union Agriculture Minister) told the media that a 4.6 per cent annual growth has been noticed in the agriculture sector in the last six years. He additionally highlighted that the government is concentrated on diversification and agroecological crop planning from excessive production of crops like rice and wheat to deficit commodities like pulses and oilseeds. 

The media reports also say that the government is also in action to convert more than three lakh fertiliser shop into Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samruddhi Kendras to help farmers in providing seeds, fertilizers, soil testing, etc.