Why in news?
In September 2025 the Union Cabinet approved the National Pulses Mission with a budgetary outlay of ₹11,440 crore to be implemented during 2023–24 to 2027–28. The mission aims to raise India’s pulses production to meet domestic demand and improve nutritional security.
Objectives
- Production target: Increase pulses production from about 242 lakh tonnes (2022–23) to 350 lakh tonnes by 2030–31, reducing dependence on imports.
- Income support: Enhance farmers’ incomes through assured procurement, minimum support prices and value addition.
- Nutrition: Promote consumption of pulses, which are rich in proteins, fibre and micronutrients, to combat malnutrition.
Key interventions
- Seed distribution: Supply quality seeds of high‑yielding varieties and distribute seed mini‑kits to farmers.
- Processing and storage: Establish storage facilities and modern pulse processing units to reduce post‑harvest losses and improve marketability.
- Price support: Ensure remunerative minimum support prices and implement procurement under Price Support Scheme when market prices fall.
- Research and extension: Fund research on climate‑resilient varieties and provide training to farmers through Krishi Vigyan Kendras.
Importance
Pulses are a staple of Indian diets and a key source of plant protein. Increasing domestic production reduces import bills, stabilises prices and supports self‑sufficiency. Pulses also improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation and require less water than many cereals, making them environmentally sustainable. The mission aligns with the government’s vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” by enhancing agricultural productivity and farmers’ welfare.