Rabi Campaign 2019: India registers record food grains production

New Delhi: Inaugurating the National Conference on Agriculture for Rabi Campaign 2019, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Mr Parshottam Rupala highlighted the record production achieved for food grains (285 million tonnes) and also complimented state governments for effective implementation of Centrally Sponsored Schemes.

He said that this cooperation has made possible an all time high production of rice (116 million tonnes), wheat (102.5 million tonnes), pulses and oilseeds. He expressed concerned about the shortage of oilseeds for which he suggested launching a separate mission to increase capacity and reduce import of edible oils. The Minister emphasized that the demand for fertilizers should be made after consultation with farmer organizations at the District level. The State Agriculture Departments should furnish their fertilizer demands to Centre in time so that availability can be ensured to farmers at crucial stages of crops. He stressed taking advantage of favorable weather conditions so that better production can be achieved in the Rabi season. The State Agriculture Departments of Gujarat and Punjab should remain vigilant for locust attack as it has been reported in Rajasthan, he added.

Secretary (DARE) Mr Mahapatra informed that 45 biofortified varieties have been released with enhanced percentage of nutrients, protein etc. The State Agriculture Departments have been asked to provide support for strengthening the seed hubs. There is need to strengthen the Lab to Land connect for maximum benefit of farmers.

Secretary (Fertilizer) informed that a Fertilizer Awareness Drive will be organized by State Agriculture Departments on onset of Rabi season. The requirement for fertilizers needs to be generated at district level and needs to be forwarded to Centre by State Agriculture Departments. Buffer stock of fertilizers like urea would be explored at state level.

Presentations by Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare were made on the subject of Credit, PMFBY, MSP operation, Farmers Welfare and Fertilizers. Three State Government presentations were also delivered and various components of flagship schemes were deliberated upon. Further, key implementation issues were discussed during the interactive sessions with state governments/UTs.