During the UPA government’s 10-year tenure, only 6 lakh metric tonnes of pulses were procured. In contrast, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has procured a significant 1.92 crore metric tonnes of pulses, as per Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. Chouhan has assured 100% procurement of tur, masoor, and urad to be guaranteed.
India, with 38% of the global pulse cultivation area, only contributes 28% to production due to low productivity caused by outdated seed varieties, low seed replacement rates, and adverse weather conditions. The country was previously the largest importer of pulses until 2016. However, a ‘Pulses Revolution’ has been initiated through enhanced technology, advanced varieties, scientific research, and policy support, resulting in a record 27.30 million tonnes of pulses produced in 2021–22.
Under the Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission, various provisions have been made, including the development of improved seed varieties, higher seed replacement rates, farmer training, cluster approach, free mini-kits, demonstration plots, and financial assistance up to Rs 10,000 per hectare. Additionally, transparent procurement and support up to Rs 25 lakh for establishing dal mills are part of the initiative.
Agricultural infrastructure worth over Rs 1 lakh crore has been created by PM Modi under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, ensuring safe storage of farmers’ produce. Notably, modern structures such as Custom Hiring Centres, Primary Processing Centres, Farm Harvest Automation Units, Warehouses, Sorting and Grading Units, and Cold Storages have been established, reducing crop losses by 5% to 15%.
Farmers can now store their produce safely, enabling them to fetch better prices instead of being compelled to sell immediately after harvest, Chouhan emphasized.
