The Gist of Kurukshetra: January 2017
- Strategies for Achieving Self-Sufficiency in Pulses and Oilseeds (Free Available)
- Role of Pulses in Indian Agriculture (Only For The Subscribed Members)
Strategies for Achieving Self-Sufficiency in Pulses and Oilseeds
India is a proud nation enjoying self-sufficiency in foodgrain production and sustainable food security despite burgeoning population and various climatic stresses. But there is no room for complacency, because country is still facing severe challenges in pulse and oilseeds sectors. Poor productivity and low gross production compel country to resort to frequent imports for meeting the domestic demand of pulses and oilseeds. The widening gap between demand and supply often leads to skyrocketing of prices in domestic market, especially in pulses, which is a cause of major concern for general public and the Government alike. More than two years ago, the new Government took a decisive step and developed strategies for achieving self-sufficiency in pulses and oilseeds. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, while launching DD Kisan Channel on 26th May 2015, urged and motivated farmers to work hard in a mission mode for achieving self-sufficiency in pulses by 2022, when India will be celebrating its platinum jubilee of Independence. Prime Minister expressed his concern over widespread protein malnutrition in the country which can be eradicated by regular and adequate supply of pulses to poor families.
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is supporting the endeavours through its R&D programmes, extension mechanism and expert inputs for devising future vision for these important commodities. Government of India is also supporting 'International Year of Pulses - 2016' a call given by United Nations, by organizing various activities and events among stakeholders with the objective to promote farming of pulses across the country. Similarly, an International Conference is being organized this month (12-14 November 2016) on 'Pulses for Nutritional Security and Sustainable Agriculture' in which researchers, policy planners, extension personnel, industrialists, entrepreneurs will deliberate to develop a roadmap for increasing productivity and more importantly profitability of pulses.
Pulses: Production, Demand and Supply