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Subject: Agriculture

  • [pib] Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PMKMY)

    Why in the News?

    • The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare has provided state-wise details of farmers registered under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PMKMY).
      • Top Three States: Haryana (5,74,467), Bihar (3,45,038), Chhattisgarh (2,02,734).
      • Bottom Three States/UT: Lakshadweep (72), Ladakh (114), Goa (150).
    • Recently, the PMKMY (launched on 12th September 2019) has completed 5 successful years.

    About Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PMKMY)

    Details Type: Central Sector Scheme
    Objective: To provide a voluntary, contributory pension scheme for farmers aged 18–40 years, ensuring ₹3,000/month pension after they turn 60 years of age.
    Implementation & Structural Mandate Implemented by: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
    Pension Fund Manager: Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India
    State-wise Registration: Registered farmers are managed by the respective state governments in collaboration with LIC. The scheme encourages a structured approach involving the collection of contributions and government matching funds.
    Contribution: Farmers contribute between ₹55 and ₹200 per month, depending on their entry age.
    Beneficiaries & Benefits Beneficiaries: Farmers aged 18–40 years.
    Benefits: Assured pension of ₹3,000 per month post-60 years, matching contribution by the Government of India, administered by LIC.
    Exclusions: Income taxpayers, members of government pension schemes, and those already enrolled in other pension schemes.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] In India, which of the following can be considered as public investment in agriculture? (2020)

    1. Fixing Minimum Support Price for agricultural produce of all crops
    2. Computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies
    3. Social Capital development
    4. Free electricity supply to farmers
    5. Waiver of agricultural loans by the banking system
    6. Setting up of cold storage facilities by the governments

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 5 only

    (b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only

    (c) 2, 3 and 6 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

  • Prospects and Concerns for the Rabi Crop

    Why in the News?

    Due to high October temperatures and shortages of di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) fertiliser, the planting of key Rabi (winter-spring) crops such as wheat, mustard, and chana (chickpea) has been slower than usual.

    Low Rabi Sowing this Year

    • The Rabi (winter-spring) season is key for crops like wheat, mustard, and chana.
    • Sowing began in October and continues through November-December.
    • As of November 8, 2024, sowing progress includes:
      • Wheat: 41.30 lakh hectares (down from 48.87 lakh hectares last year)
      • Mustard: 49.90 lakh hectares (down from 50.73 lakh hectares last year)
      • Chana: 24.57 lakh hectares (down from 27.42 lakh hectares last year)
    • Reasons Behind:
      • High October Temperatures: 0.68°C above normal temperatures delayed sowing and caused poor germination, especially in jeera and other spices.
      • Fertiliser Shortage: A shortage of DAP fertiliser hindered the timely planting of crops.
      • Delayed Start of Sowing: Farmers, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, began sowing later than usual (from October 20-22 instead of mid-October).

    About Rabi Cropping Season in India:

    • Rabi crops are generally sown in mid-November, once the monsoon rains have receded.
    • These crops grow using the rainwater that has percolated into the soil or with the help of irrigation systems.
    • The harvesting of Rabi crops generally occurs from April to May.
    • Major Rabi Crops:
      • Wheat: The largest and most important Rabi crop in India.
      • Barley: Grown mainly in North and Central India.
      • Mustard: An essential oilseed crop grown across various regions.
      • Sesame: Grown in many states but harvested early.
      • Peas: Harvested early, with a market peak from January to March (especially in February).
    • Agronomic Features:
      • Rabi crops rely heavily on irrigation and residual moisture from the previous monsoon season.
      • Excessive winter rainfall can harm Rabi crops but benefits the kharif crops grown later.
    rabi crop
    PC: Wikipedia

    PYQ:

    [2013] Consider the following crops:

    1. Cotton
    2. Groundnut
    3. Rice
    4. Wheat

    Which of these are Kharif crops?

    (a) 1 and 4

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1, 2 and 3

    (d) 2, 3 and 4

  • North Eastern Tea Association (NETA)

    Why in the News?

    • The North Eastern Tea Association (NETA) has appealed to Ministry of Commerce and Industry seeking permission for tea producers to sell their products through both private sales and public auction systems.
      • A gazette notification issued on February 26, 2024 has mandated that 100% of dust teas must be sold through public auctions.

    About North Eastern Tea Association (NETA)

    Details • NETA is an association of tea producers headquartered in Golaghat, Upper Assam.
    • Established in 1981.
    • A key constituent of the Joint Forum and the Consultative Committee of Plantation Associations (CCPA), Assam Valley branch.
    • Focuses on promoting the interests of its members and enhancing the tea industry in Assam.
    Structural Mandate • Presence: Strong presence in Golaghat, Assam.
    • Role: Represents tea producers and plays a pivotal role in the development of Assam’s tea industry.
    • Mandate: Advocates for improvements in the tea industry, assists with policy suggestions, and provides guidance on the development of the tea sector.
    Powers and Functions • Advisory Role: Provides expert opinions and advice to the government of Assam and its members on issues related to the tea industry.
    • Policy Advocacy: Urges for changes in government policies to improve the tea industry, e.g., suggesting the relocation of the Tea Board of India’s headquarters to Guwahati.
    • Industry Growth: Encourages high-quality tea production and advises growers to enhance the quality of tea to attract international buyers.
    • Small Tea Grower Representation: Advocates for amendments to the definition of Small Tea Growers, proposing that those holding up to 50.6 hectares of land be recognized as small growers.
    • Government Relations: Provides suggestions to the government for improving and scaling up the tea industry in Assam.

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] Consider the following States:

    1. Andhra Pradesh
    2. Kerala
    3. Himachal Pradesh
    4. Tripura

    How many of the above are generally known as tea-producing States?

    (a) Only one State

    (b) Only two States

    (c) Only three States

    (d) All four States

  • [pib] Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme

    Why in the News?

    • The government has a Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme to regulate the subsidy rates for Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers, based on international prices of raw materials and fluctuations in the global market.
    Note:  Unlike P&K fertilizers, urea is provided to farmers at a statutorily notified Maximum Retail Price (MRP), irrespective of its cost of production.

    About the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme:

    Details
    About • Introduced to provide subsidies on Phosphatic (P) and Potassic (K) fertilizers, based on nutrient content, excluding Urea.
    • Aims to promote balanced fertilization by encouraging use of multiple fertilizers for optimal plant nutrition.
    Structure and Functioning • Launched: 2010, under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
    • Implemented by the Department of Fertilizers, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
    • Scope: Applies to Phosphatic and Potassic fertilizers (excluding Urea).
    • Governance: Subsidy rates are decided annually or bi-annually, based on market prices of fertilizers and raw materials.
    Aims and Objectives • Promote Balanced Fertilization: Encourages the use of Phosphorus and Potassium to complement Nitrogen and improve soil health.
    • Enhance Nutrient Efficiency: Aims to reduce over-reliance on Urea and improve use of other essential nutrients.
    • Support Farmers’ Affordability: Makes P&K fertilizers more affordable and accessible to farmers.

     

    About New Investment Policy (NIP) on Urea 

    • The NIP for Urea was announced by the Government of India in 2012 to increase domestic urea production capacity and reduce dependence on urea imports.
    • The policy aims to revive old urea plants and promote investment in new plants to meet the growing demand for urea.
    • The NIP focuses on improving fertilizer availability, and ensuring self-sufficiency in urea production.

    Urea Pricing after NIP

    • The pricing of urea is controlled by the government, and the subsidy mechanism ensures affordable pricing for farmers.
    • The government provides subsidies to urea manufacturers to bridge the gap between the cost of production and the retail price, which is kept constant at ₹5,360 per ton (as of 2023) for farmers.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to chemical fertilizers in India, consider the following statements:

    1. At present, the retail price of chemical fertilizers is market-driven and not administered by the Government.

    2. Ammonia, which is an input of urea, is produced from natural gas.

    3. Sulphur, which is a raw material for phosphoric acid fertilizer, is a by-product of oil refineries.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 2 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [pib] India and ADB sign $98 million loan to promote Plants Health management

    Why in the News?

    • The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $98 million loan to support the Building India’s Clean Plant Programme.

    Aims and Objectives

    • The $98 million loan focuses on improving horticulture crop farmers’ access to certified disease-free planting materials.
    • The primary aim is to boost the yield, quality, and resilience of crops, particularly in response to the impacts of climate change.

    About the Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP):

    Details • Announced in Union Budget 2023-24 to enhance plant health management in India.
    • Aimed at providing farmers access to clean, disease-free planting materials.
    • Anchored by the National Horticulture Board (NHB), which will set up Clean Plant Centers across the country.
    • Ensures global competitiveness of the Indian horticulture sector.
    • Key Objectives:
    – Strengthen the regulatory framework for plant health management.
    – Establish Clean Plant Centres for disease-free horticultural crops.
    – Collaborate with private nurseries, researchers, state governments, and growers’ associations for success.
    • Funding: ADB loan to establish advanced laboratories and diagnostic testing facilities at Clean Plant Centres.
    • Will include a certification scheme for private nurseries to produce disease-free planting materials.
    Where does India stand in its Horticulture Sector? • In 2022-23, India’s horticulture production reached 351.92 million tonnes, surpassing foodgrain production.
    • Second largest producer of fruits and vegetables in the world; Contributes about 33% to the agriculture Gross Value Added (GVA).
    • Ranks first in the production of crops like Bananas, Lime, Papaya, and Okra.
    • Steady increase in horticulture production driven by proactive government policies.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] What are the present challenges before crop diversification? How do emerging technologies provide an opportunity for crop diversification?

    [2018] Assess the role of National Horticulture Mission (NHM) in boosting the production, productivity and income of horticulture farms. How far has it succeeded in increasing the income of farmers?

  • Central government scheme to promote natural farming launched

    Why in the News?

    Recently, the Union Cabinet approved the “National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)”, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme by the Agriculture Ministry to promote natural farming nationwide in mission mode.

    What is Natural Farming?

    • Natural farming is defined by the Agriculture Ministry as a chemical-free agricultural system that relies solely on inputs derived from livestock and plant resources. This approach emphasizes the use of local agroecological principles and traditional knowledge, integrating crops, trees, and livestock to enhance biodiversity and soil health.
    • Aim: The goal is to rejuvenate soil quality while minimizing external inputs, thus reducing costs for farmers and promoting healthier food production.

    How is the NMNF Different from Earlier Interventions?

    The NMNF represents an evolution of previous initiatives, particularly the Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhti (BPKP), which was launched in 2019. 

    • Higher Budgetary Outlay: The NMNF has a total financial outlay of ₹2,481 crore, with ₹1,584 crore from the central government and ₹897 crore from states until 2025-26.
    • Targeting More Farmers: The mission aims to engage over one crore farmers, significantly expanding its reach compared to earlier efforts.
    • Establishment of Standards: It seeks to create scientifically supported standards and streamlined certification processes for naturally grown produce, along with a national brand for such products.

    Why is it Necessary to Diversify the Farming Basket?

    • Environmental Sustainability: Reducing chemical inputs helps restore soil health and biodiversity, making agriculture more resilient to climate change.
    • Economic Viability: By promoting local inputs and reducing dependency on purchased fertilizers, farmers can lower their costs and increase their profitability.
    • Food Security: A diverse agricultural system can lead to improved food quality and nutritional security for communities.

    Why a Mission on Natural Farming is Needed?

    • Excessive Fertilizer Use: The initiative targets districts with high fertiliser consumption, aiming to shift practices towards more sustainable methods that rejuvenate soil health and reduce environmental degradation.
    • Health Risks: By eliminating synthetic chemicals from farming, the mission aims to lower health risks associated with pesticide exposure for both farmers and consumers.
    • Climate Resilience: Natural farming practices enhance resilience against climate-related challenges such as droughts and floods by improving soil structure and water retention capabilities.

    Way forward: 

    • Policy and Infrastructure Support: Strengthen institutional frameworks by expanding Bio-input Resource Centres (BRCs), offering financial incentives, and ensuring easy access to natural farming resources and certification systems.
    • Awareness and Capacity Building: Conduct large-scale training programs for farmers on natural farming practices, promote successful models through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), and foster collaborations with agricultural universities for research and innovation.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What is an Integrated Farming System? How is it helpful to small and marginal farmers in India? (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • National Milk Day

    Why in the News?

    National Milk Day on November 26 commemorates the birth anniversary of ‘The Milkman of India’, Dr Verghese Kurien, who was credited with making India self-reliant in milk production.

    About National Milk Day:

    Details • Observed on November 26 to honor Dr. Verghese Kurien’s contributions to India’s dairy industry and the White Revolution.
    • Celebrates India’s transformation into the world’s largest milk producer.
    Contributions made by Varghese Kurien • Born on November 26, 1921, in Kozhikode, Kerala.
    • Played a key role in establishing Amul (1949) and transforming it into a global dairy brand.
    • Inaugural chairman of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).
    • Led Operation Flood, which revolutionized India’s dairy industry and made it self-sufficient in milk production.
    • Received numerous awards, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership (1963).
    About the White Revolution and Milk Production in India • Initiated in 1970 through Operation Flood to increase milk production and reduce dependence on milk powder imports.
    • Empowered dairy farmers by promoting a cooperative-based model for milk production.
    • By the late 1990s, India became the world’s largest milk producer, surpassing the US.
    • Milk production grew threefold, from 21.2 million tonnes in 1968-69 to over 55 million tonnes by 1991-92.
    • Helped build the infrastructure for milk supply chains, processing plants, and storage facilities, making milk more accessible.
    • Significantly improved the income and livelihood of rural farmers, boosting employment and economic development.

    India is ranked 1st in milk production, contributing 24% of global milk production, reaching 230.58 million tonnes in 2022-23. 

  • Coffee Board devises road map with eye on doubling production, exports

    Why in the News?

    The Coffee Board of India has launched a 10-year roadmap with a goal to double the country’s coffee production and coffee exports by 2034.

    About Coffee Board of India:

    Details
    About • Coffee cultivation in India began with the planting of 7 seeds of coffee during 1600 AD by saint Baba Budan, in the courtyard of his hermitage in Chikmagalur, Karnataka.

    • Until 1995, marketed the pooled supply of coffee.
    • Post-1995, coffee marketing became a private-sector activity due to economic liberalisation.
    Structural Mandate • Managed by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, established in 1942, headquartered in Bangalore.

    • Comprises 33 members, including a Chairman appointed by the Government of India.
    Functions of Coffee Board • Enhancement of production, productivity & quality.
    • Export promotion for achieving higher value returns for Indian Coffee.
    • Supporting the development of the domestic market.
    Coffee Industry in India – Imports/Exports • Karnataka is the largest producer (70%), followed by Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
    • India exports over 70% of its coffee production.
    • India is the 8th largest coffee exporter (FAO) globally (by volume).
    • Coffee exports peak from March to June.
    Agro-climatic Conditions • It is a tropical plant which is also grown in semi-tropical climate.

    • 16° – 28°C temperature, 150-250cm rainfall and well-drained slopes are essential for its growth.

    • Low temperature, frost, dry weather for a long time and harsh sunshine are harmful for its plant.

    • Coffee plants grow better in the laterite soils of Karnataka in India.

    • Major Varieties Cultivated: Arabica, Robusta and Liberica.

    • Arabica has high market value than Robusta coffee due to its mild aromatic flavor.

     

    PYQ:

    [2010] Though coffee and tea both are cultivated on hill slopes, there is some difference between them regarding their cultivation. In this context, consider the following statements:

    1. Coffee plant requires a hot and humid climate of tropical areas whereas tea can be cultivated in both tropical and subtropical areas.
    2. Coffee is propagated by seeds but tea is propagated by stem cuttings only.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • Asia Tea Alliance not in favor of GM Tea

    Why in the News?

    • The Asia Tea Alliance (ATA) resolved to reject Genetically Modified (GM) Tea in response to climate challenges affecting global tea production.
      • With India’s tea production down by 10% this year due to climate change, certain companies have advocated for GM tea.

    About Asia Tea Alliance (ATA)

    • Founded: April 19, 2019, in Guizhou, China.
    • 5 Members: India, China, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Japan.
    • Goals: Enhance tea trade, cultural exchange, and globally promote tea.

    About Indian Tea Industry: 

    • India is the second-largest tea producer and largest black tea producer after China, and also the fourth-largest tea exporter worldwide.
    • India is the largest consumer of black tea, accounting for 18% of global tea consumption.
    • The Indian tea industry directly employs 1.16 million workers, with an equal number indirectly associated.
    • It is governed by the Tea Board of India and under Union Government control by an Act of Parliament.
    • Geographical conditions:
      • Northeast India (including Assam), north Bengal (such as Darjeeling, Terai and the Dooars), and the Nilgiris in south India.
      • Tropical and subtropical climates, with regions concentrated in Asia, Africa, and South America favours tea cultivation.
      • It requires cool to warm temperatures (15–23°C) with at least 5 hours of sunlight daily; annual rainfall should be 150-200 cm.
    • Darjeeling Tea known as the “Champagne of teas,” for its aroma was the first to GI tag in 2004–05.

    PYQ:

    [2020] “The crop is subtropical in nature. A hard frost is injurious to it. It requires at least 210 frost-free days and 50 to 100 centimeters of rainfall for its growth. A light well-drained soil capable of retaining moisture is ideally suited for the cultivation of the crop.” Which one of the following is that crop?

    (a) Cotton

    (b) Jute

    (c) Sugarcane

    (d) Tea

  • [pib] Development of Tuna Cluster in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

    Why in the News?

    The Department of Fisheries has notified the creation of a Tuna Cluster in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).

    • The A&N Islands offer significant opportunities for fisheries development with approximately 6.0 lakh square km of Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
    • This region has rich sea resources, particularly Tuna and Tuna-like species, with an estimated potential of 60,000 metric tons.
    • The islands’ location near Southeast Asia enables efficient sea and air trade, and the pristine waters support sustainable fishing.

    About Tuna Species and its Significance

    • Tuna are large, fast-swimming fish belonging to the Thunnini tribe within the Scombridae family.
    • Known for their streamlined bodies and remarkable agility, tuna are found in tropical and temperate oceans worldwide.
    • There are over 15 species of tuna, with some of the most well-known being Bluefin, Yellowfin, Albacore, Bigeye, and Skipjack.
    • Tuna can grow quickly and live for several decades, with species like Bluefin reaching over 450 kg in weight.
    • It is one of the most popular and valuable fish in the global seafood market, highly sought after for its flavor, texture, and nutritional value.
    • Species like Bluefin tuna are particularly valuable, often fetching high prices in markets, especially in Japan for dishes like sushi and sashimi.
    • It is rich in protein, low in saturated fat, and packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, brain function, and inflammation reduction.
    • It also provides essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin D, B12, iron, and selenium.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] The most important fishing grounds of the world are found in the regions where

    (a) Warm and cold atmospheric currents meet

    (b) Rivers drain out large amounts of freshwater into the sea

    (c) Warm and cold oceanic currents meet

    (d) Continental shelf is undulating