The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, in his national address had shared his vision of improving the livelihood of people, after covid19 lockdown.He revealed the strategy of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self Reliant India) that will focus on making India self-reliant.
The first set of relief measures under the government’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan’—India’s Rs.20 lakh crore Covid-19 economic package was announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on May 15, 2020.
Focus areas: Agriculture – 8 measures relate to strengthening the infrastructure and storage facilities, 3 will relate to governance & administrative reforms.
Agri Infrastructure Fund for farm-gate infrastructure to be setup
A Rs. 1 lakh crore fund has been announced for agri-infrastructure fund for farm-gate infrastructure.
Formalisation of Micro Food Enterprises (MFE) scheme:
The government of India will launch a scheme to help 2 lakh Micro Food Enterprises (MFE) to install technical process and attain FSSAI food standards, build brands and marketing.
The expected outcomes of this scheme are improved health and safety standards, integration with retail markets and reach untapped export markets.
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana for Fishermen
Government will launch the PMMSY for integrated, sustainable, inclusive development of marine and in land fisheries and to fill critical gaps in the fisheries value chain.
This initiative will lead additional fish production of 70 lakh tonnes over 5 years and provide employment to over 55 lakh persons, also doubling the exports to Rs 1,00,000 crore.
National Animal Disease Control Programme
National Animal Disease Control Programme for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) & Brucellosis launched with total outlay of Rs. 13,343 crore.
It will ensure that 100% vaccination of cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat and pig population (total 53 crore animals) for the above mentioned diseases.
Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund to be setup
Government announces an Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund worth Rs. 15,000 crore.
Promotion of Herbal Cultivation
The National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) will support cultivation of herbal medicinal plants leading to income generation for farmers.
The board will bring 800 hectare area by developing a corridor of medicinal plants along the banks of Ganga.
Support for Beekeeping initiatives
Government will implement a scheme for infrastructure development related to integrated beekeeping development centres, collection, marketing and storage centres, post harvest & value addition facilities etc;
These initiatives will lead to increase in income for 2 lakh beekeepers and quality honey to consumers.
Operation Greens – TOP to TOTAL
“Operation Greens” run by Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MOFPI) will be extended from Tomatoes, Onion and Potatoes (TOP) to all fruit and vegetables (TOTAL)
The expected outcomes of these measures will lead to better price realisation to farmers, reduced wastages & affordability of products for consumers.
Governance and Administrative Reforms for Agriculture Sector: During the press conference, the Union Finance Minister also released certain administrative reforms that would strengthen the agri sector.
Amendments to Essential Commodities
The Essential Commodities Act, 1955 will be amended to enable better price realisation for farmers and make agriculture sector competitive.
Agriculture Marketing Reforms
A Central law will be formulated to provide adequate choices to the farmer to sell their produce at remunerative price, promote barrier free Inter-State Trade and a framework for e-trading of agriculture produce.
Agriculture Produce Pricing and Quality Assurance
A facilitative legal framework will be created by the government to enable farmers to engage with processors, aggregators, large retailers, exporters etc. in a fair and transparent manner.
The integral part of the framework is Risk mitigation for farmers, assured returns and quality standardization.
To save PDF copy: Click here to view online and download
Atmanirbhar Bharat Economic Package Set 1 Highlights: Businesses and MSME [PDF download]
Atmanirbhar Bharat Economic Package Set 2 Highlights [PDF download]