Impacting Farmers’ lives through Science Biotech-Kisan & Cattle Genomics

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
28-February, 2018 17:19 IST
Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare congratulates Indian Council of Agricultural Research for completing 88 glorious years

Entire focus is on farmers' welfare and Budget 2018 reiterates emphasis on holistic development of agriculture sector: Shri Radha Mohan Singh

Several policy initiatives in the last three years resulted in record food grain production in the current year: Union Agriculture Minister

Very proud of our peasant brothers and scientists for having taken India to the top slot in Horticulture: Shri Singh



The Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Radha Mohan Singh today addressed the 89th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) society at National Agricultural Science Complex (NASC) in Pusa, New Delhi. Shri Singh congratulated ICAR for completing 88 glorious years and lauded the institution for having braved the odds despite challenging circumstances to achieve notable success in improving agriculture system and enhancing agriculture production and productivity in the country thereby increasing income of the farmers, especially the small and marginal farmers.

The minister said that ICAR has taken important steps towards fulfilling Prime Minister’s vision of doubling farmer’s income by 2022. The ICAR has also done notable work in the field of developing new technologies, integrated farming systems, institution building, human resource, diversification in agriculture, creating new opportunities and developing new sources of information. The ICAR is committed to making Indian agriculture more sustainable and beneficial.

Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare; Shri Parshottam Rupala, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Panchayati Raj and Smt. Krishna Raj, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare; Shri Mahadev Jagannath Jankar, Minister for Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development and Fisheries Development, Maharashtra; Shri Pocharam Srinivas Reddy, Minister of Agriculture and Horticulture, Telangana; Shri Sanjay Dhotre, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha); Shri Surya Pratap Shahi, Minister of Agriculture, Uttar Pradesh; Dr. Ram Lal Markanda, Minister of Agriculture, Himachal Pradesh; Shri Prem Kumar, Minister of Agriculture and Horticulture, Bihar; Shri Ghulam Nabi Lone, Minister for Agriculture Production, Jammu & Kashmir; Shri Abdul Ghani Kohli, Minister for Animal, Sheep Husbandry and Fisheries, Jammu & Kashmir; Shri Udumalai Radhakrishnan, Minister for Animal Husbandry, Tamil Nadu and Shri Thalavai Sundaram, Special Representative, Govt. of Tamil Nadu were also present at the occasion.

Shri Singh said that the government is committed in its effort to double farmer’s income by 2022 and is working for the betterment of the sector and farmers. He said his entire focus is on farmers' welfare and Budget 2018 reiterates the government’s emphasis on holistic development of agriculture sector. For the first time in this budget, the rural outlay has increased by 30%.

Agriculture minister asserted that several policy initiatives of the government in the last three years have resulted in record production of food grains in the country in the current year. In 2017-18, production of food grain was 275.68 million tones as compared to 265.04 million tonnes in 2013-14, showing a significant rise of 10.64 million tonnes (or about 4 percent). The food grain production in the current year is, in fact, 19 million tonnes more than the average food grain production between 2011-12 and 2015-16.

The Minister also expressed happiness over record production in horticulture in 2016-17 at 305 million tonnes, which is 4.8% more than the previous year. The fruit production has crossed 93 million tonnes and vegetable production has reached 178 million tonnes. He applauded the special contribution of ICAR in achieving this milestone and said that he is very proud of his peasant brothers and scientists for having taken India to the top slot in horticulture.

Shri Singh said the ICAR has developed 45 IFS by including 15 agro-climatic zones to help small and marginal farmers to tide over the problems associated with climate change. This model will be replicated and taken forward through agricultural science centers spread across the country. Besides this, ICAR has also developed 623 District Level contingency schemes, which were certified and skill development programs for 40.9 lakh farmers were organized.

In order to assist the Government’s “Soil Health Card” initiative, minilabs were developed for soil testing. ICAR through its agriculture science centres spread across the country have displayed climate friendly techniques in 29 States. A total of 42 biological agricultural technologies were developed by ICAR which were tested and further improved. ICAR has also developed 42 organic farming techniques, which were tested and are being further improved.

In order to take scientific knowledge to the farmers, the Government has started a program called 'Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav, in which five villages are adopted by a group of four scientists who impart agricultural consultation and information to farmers. A total of 1226 teams have been formed this year from a pool of 4774 scientists sourced from ICAR and state agriculture universities. This program has already benefitted 9,76,033 farmers and 5.346 villages.

The government, for the benefit of farmers, has initiated several programs like agriculture expansion, Sankalp Se Siddhi, 'Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav, infrastructure development, agriculture education, agricultural research, international cooperation and technology transfer among others.

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The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh releasing the publication, at the inauguration of the 89th Annual General Meeting of the Indian Council Agricultural Research (ICAR), in New Delhi on February 28, 2018. The Ministers of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Panchayati Raj, Shri Parshottam Rupala, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat & Smt. Krishna Raj, the DG, ICAR, Dr. T. Mohapatra and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh releasing the publication, at the inauguration of the 89th Annual General Meeting of the Indian Council Agricultural Research (ICAR), in New Delhi on February 28, 2018. The Ministers of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Panchayati Raj, Shri Parshottam Rupala, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat & Smt. Krishna Raj, the DG, ICAR, Dr. T. Mohapatra and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh releasing the publication, at the inauguration of the 89th Annual General Meeting of the Indian Council Agricultural Research (ICAR), in New Delhi on February 28, 2018. The Ministers of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Panchayati Raj, Shri Parshottam Rupala, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat & Smt. Krishna Raj, the DG, ICAR, Dr. T. Mohapatra and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh addressing at the inauguration of the 89th Annual General Meeting of the Indian Council Agricultural Research (ICAR), in New Delhi on February 28, 2018.

The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh addressing at the inauguration of the 89th Annual General Meeting of the Indian Council Agricultural Research (ICAR), in New Delhi on February 28, 2018.

The Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat addressing at the inauguration of the 89th Annual General Meeting of the Indian Council Agricultural Research (ICAR), in New Delhi on February 28, 2018.

Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA)
28-February, 2018 18:26 IST
Cabinet approves doubling of Government guarantee from Rs 9,500 crore to Rs.19,000 crore for procurements of pulses and oilseeds at MSP under Price Support Scheme by NAFED

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the regularization and extension of Govt. Guarantee provided to lender Bank for providing credit limit to National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) Rs.19,000 crore from earlier Rs.9,500 crore for undertaking procurement operation of pulses and oilseeds under Price Support Scheme (PSS) and to Small Farmers Agri-Business Consortium (SFAC) for Rs. 45 crore for meeting their existing liability and settlement of extant claims. These Government Guarantees are provided for a period of five years i.e. till 2021-22 by Govt. of India and with waiver of 1% Government Guarantee fee.

As the market price of almost all pulses and oilseeds are ruling below Minimum Support Price (MSP) as notified by Govt. of India, provision of Govt. Guarantee will help in protecting the farmers producing these commodities from making distress sales during the peak arrival period and to provide remunerative prices with a view to encourage higher investment and production and also to safeguard the interest of consumer by making available supplies at reasonable price with low cost of intermediation.

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Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA)
28-February, 2018 18:25 IST
Cabinet approves continuation of Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) beyond 12th Plan for three years from 2017-18 to 2019-20

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the continuation of Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) beyond 12th Plan for three years from 2017-18 to 2019-20 with a total outlay of Rs.5,500 crore.

Scheme will create sustainable estimated employment opportunities for 15 lakh persons in three financial years.

Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) is the nodal implementation agency at the national level. At the State/district level, State offices of KVIC, Khadi and Village Industries Boards (KVIBs) and District Industry Centres (DIC) are the implementing agencies. Applications are invited and processed on-line on PMEGP-e-portal. Targets are fixed taking into account:

1. 1. Extent of backwardness of State;
   2. Extent of unemployment;
   3. Extent of fulfillment of previous year targets;
   4. Population of State/Union Territory; and
   5. Availability of traditional skills and raw material.

A minimum target of 75 project/district is awarded to all districts of the country to achieve Inclusive Growth. Higher rate of subsidy (25% to 35%) will be applicable for women, SC/ST, OBC, Physically Disabled, NER applicants in rural areas.

The entire process of application flow and fund flow right from receipt of application, processing, sanction by banks, transfer of margin money subsidy till creation of Term Deposit Receipt (TDR) in the name of applicant has been made online. The portal can be accessed at https://www.kviconline.gov.in/pmegpeportal/prneqphome/index.jsp.

Background:

PMEGP is a major credit-linked subsidy programme being implemented by the Ministry of MSME since 2008-09 The Scheme is aimed at generating self-employment opportunities through establishment of micro-enterprises in the non-farm sector by helping traditional artisans and unemployed youth in rural as well as urban areas. A total of 4.55 lakh micro enterprises have been assisted with a margin money subsidy of Rs 9564.02 crore providing employment to an estimated 37.98 lakh persons from inception till 31.01.2018.

Following modifications/improvements have been made in the Scheme:

1. Second loan of upto Rs. one crore to existing and better performing PMEGP units for upgrading with subsidy of 15%;
2. Merger of Coir Udyami Yojana (GUY) in PMEGP;
3. Introduction of concurrent monitoring and evaluation
4. Mandatory Aadhaar and Pan card;
5. Geo-tagging of units;

• vii. Negative list under PMEGP amended allowing serving/selling non-vegetarian food at Hotels/Dhabas and Off Farm/Farm Linked activities.

1. Dispensing the ratio of 30:30:40 for KVIC/KVIB/DIC.
2. Cap the working capital component for manufacturing units to 40% of the project cost and for service/trading sector to 60% of the project cost.

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Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
28-February, 2018 19:34 IST

Use of NEET (UG 2018) qualified merit list for filling up of 15% seats on All India basis for admissions to B.V.Sc & A.H degree Course in recognized Veterinary Colleges during 2017-18

The Veterinary Council of India through its Public Notice dated 23.02.2018 has informed that the Merit list of NEET (UG) 2018 will be used for allocation of seats under 15% All India quota for allocation of seats to the recognized Veterinary Colleges for admission to B.V.Sc & A.H. course during 2018-19.


All those students desirous to take admission to B.V.Sc & A.H.Degree Course under 15% seats on All India Basis are hereby advised to appear in NEET (UG)2018 to be conducted by Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on 6th May,2018.


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[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Commerce & Industry
05-March, 2018 14:26 IST
Premium Tag for Coffee grown in Araku Valley

Coffee Board has applied for registration of Araku coffee under Geographical Indications to protect the unique identity of the coffee grown by thetribal communities of Araku Valley in Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh.

This was informed by Minister of State of Commerce and Industry,C.R.Chaudhary, in reply to a written question inLok Sabha today.

The Central Government, through the Coffee Board, is promoting production of coffee in Araku Valley by implementing the “Integrated Coffee Development Project”. The scheme includes extending financial support for replanting and expansion, creation of water harvesting and irrigation infrastructures and mechanisation of coffee estate operations. In the non-traditional areas financial support is extended for consolidation of existing coffee plantations through gap filling and application of compost. Technical assistance is also provided by organising capacity building programs and field demonstrations. TheCoffee Board is facilitating collective marketing of Araku Coffee by providing incentives at Rs. 10 per Kg for SHGs and grower collectives.

Arabica coffee from the Araku Valley area has gained popularity as a high quality speciality coffee internationally. The Coffee Board has developed exclusive logos for coffee grown in the country based on their geographical distinctiveness.

Coffee Board encourages the coffee growers to participate in the “Flavour of India-The Fine Cup Award” competition organised by Coffee Board every year.

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[Hindustani78]

The Minister of State for Development of North Eastern Region (I/C), Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh addressing the inaugural session of the Orientation Programme for newly qualified Chartered Accountants, in New Delhi on Monday, March 05, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
06-March, 2018 14:19 IST
Approximately 1.8 lakh Fertilizer retailers sensitized during 4630 training sessions conducted during the nation-widerollout of DBT system for Fertilizer Subsidy

No procedural formalities in the DBT system hampering timely distribution of fertilizersat subsidized cost: Shri Rao Inderjit Singh Beneficiary being sold fertilizerat subsidized coston production ofAadhaar Card, Kisan Credit Card or Voter Identity Card

Minister of State for Planning (IC) and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri Rao Inderjit Singh, in a written reply to a question on progress of and feedback on Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system introduced in fertilizer distribution in the country, in Lok Sabha today, informed that the Government has introduced Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system for fertilizer subsidy in a phase-wise manner across all States/UTs. Under the fertilizer DBT system, 100% subsidy on various fertilizer grades shall be released/is being released to the fertilizer companies, on the basis of actual sales made by the retailers to the beneficiaries.

The Minister added that the sale of all subsidized fertilizers to farmers/buyers is being made through Point of Sale (PoS) devices installed at each retailer shop and the beneficiaries are being identified through Aadhaar Card, KCC, Voter Identity Card, etc.Implementation of the DBT Scheme requires deployment of PoS devices at every retailer shop, training of retailers & wholesalers for operating PoS device.

Shri Singh informedthat across the country, the Lead Fertilizer Supplier (LFS) has conducted 4630 training sessions till date, as a part of ongoingPoS deployment and as a precursor to nation-wide rollout of DBT. Approximately 1.8 lakh retailers were sensitized during the introductory training sessions conducted by LFS. The schedule for phase-wise roll out of DBT is tabulated below:



S. No

Name of States / UT's

GO Live Timeline

1

NCT of Delhi live on DBT in fertilizers

1stSeptember, 2017

2

Mizoram, Daman & Diu, Dadra Nagar Haveli, Manipur, Nagaland, Goa, Puducherry,

1stOctober, 2017

3

Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Assam, Tripura.

1stNovember, 2017

4

AP, Haryana, Punjab, Chhattisgarh and MP

1stDecember,2017

5

Kerala, Bihar, Karnataka, Jharkhand, Telangana, and TN

1stJanuary, 2018

6

UP, Gujarat, WB, Odisha and Himachal Pradesh

1stFebruary, 2018

7

Jammu &Kashmir

1stMarch, 2018



Allaying all misconceptions regarding procedural (Aadhaar) formalities in the DBT system hampering timely distribution of fertilizers in some States, Shri Singh informed that the sale of all subsidised fertilizers to farmers/buyers is being made through Point of Sale (PoS) devices installed at each retailer shop and the beneficiaries are being identified through Aadhaar Card, KCC, Voter Identity Card etc. In case, any beneficiary is not having Aadhaar Card, he/she is still being sold the fertilizer at subsidised cost on production of Kisan Credit Card or Voter Identity Card, along with his Aadhaar Enrolment number, the Minister added.

Further, replying on the feasibility to introduce DBT system for providing fertilizer subsidy directly to farmers, Shri Singh said that under the DBT scheme, the subsidy will be released to the fertilizer companies, instead of beneficiaries, after the sale is made by the retailers to the beneficiaries.

At present, direct transfer of subsidy to beneficiaries like in LPG cannot be introduced in the fertilizer sector as the beneficiaries and their entitlements are not clearly defined. Multiple subsidized products, urea and 21 grades of Phosphatic&Potassic fertilizers have different subsidy rates. In the case of urea subsidy varies from company to company due to different production processes, energy efficiencies of plants, vintage etc. Amount of subsidy in some fertilizers particularly Urea is more than double the MRP. It will be a huge financial burden on the farmers’ pocket, to pay the MRP and subsidy upfront and receive the subsidy amount in his bank account subsequently, the Minister explained.

However, NitiAayog has recently set up a committee for in depth analysis of the issue and to recommend a model that could be used for direct transfer of subsidy to the farmers, Shri Singh added.



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Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
06-March, 2018 14:17 IST
All central PSU Urea manufacturers register Operational Profits for FY 2016-17:Shri Rao Inderjit Singh

Minister of State for Planning (IC) and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri Rao Inderjit Singh, in a written reply to a question on details of urea producing units facing operational financial loss due to existing urea pricing policy, in Lok Sabha today, informed that all central PSUs Urea manufacturers have registered operational profit (i.e. before payment of interest and depreciation) for the financial year 2016-17. However, no such data is maintained by Department of Fertilizers for the private and cooperatives Urea manufacturers, the Minister informed.



The profit of all urea manufacturing central PSUs is as shown below:



S.No.

Name of the Urea manufacturing PSUs

Operational Profit during 2016-17

(Rs. in Crores)

1.

Rashtriya Chemicals & Fertilizers Limited

234.94

2.

National Fertilizers Limited

190.97

3.

Madras Fertilizers Limited

69.22

4.

Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizers Corporation Limited

7.49*



*Net Profit of the company during 2016-17.



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[Hindustani78]

Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA)
07-March, 2018 20:09 IST
Cabinet approves promotion of agricultural mechanisation for in-situ management of crop residue in the states of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has given its approval for promotion of Agricultural Mechanization for in-situ Management of Crop Residue in the States of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi.

The total outgo from the Central funds would be Rs. 1151.80 crore (Rs. 591.65 crore in 2018-19 and Rs. 560.15 crore in 2019-20).

Components of the Scheme

1. Establish Farm Machinery Banks for Custom Hiring of in -situ crop residue management machinery. Financial assistance @80% of the project cost will be provided to the cooperative societies of the farmers, FPOs, Self Help Groups, Registered Farmers Societies/ Farmers Group, Private Entrepreneurs, Group of Women Farmers.

(ii) Financial Assistance to the farmers for Procurement of Agriculture Machinery and Equipment for in -situ crop residue management. Financial assistance @50% of the machinery/ equipment will be provided to individual farmer for crop residue management.

(iii) Information, Education and Communication for awareness on in-situ crop residue management. Financial assistance will be provided to the State Government/ KVKs, ICAR Institutes, Central Government Institutes, PSUs, etc. for the activities to be undertaken towards information, education and communication. The activities will involve mass awareness campaigns through short and long films, documents, radio and TV programmes, demonstration camps at various levels, capacity building programme, advertisement in print media, star campaigning, award for Village/ Gram Panchayat for achieving Zero Straw Burning, panel discussions on Doordarshan, DD Kisan and other private channels, etc.

Beneficiaries

1. Respective State Governments through District Level Executive Committee (DLEC) will identify various beneficiaries and location - specific agricultural equipment depending on the farming system and will identify and select beneficiaries for establishment of Farm Machinery Bank for Custom Hiring and procurement of machines on individual ownership basis to avail the benefit in transparent and time bound manner.
2. The State Nodal Department / DLEC may tie up with the Banks for credit requirements of the beneficiaries. Name and details of selected beneficiaries will be documented at district level indicating Aadhar/UID numbers and the financial assistance will be paid through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

Implementing Agencies

(i) At the Central level the scheme will be administered by Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers Welfare.

1. A National Steering Committee headed by Secretary, DAC&FW will formulate the policy and give overall directions and guidance to the implementation of the scheme by the State Government and will monitor and review its progress and performance.
2. Executive Committee chaired by Additional Secretary will oversee the activities of the scheme.

(iv) At the State level the nodal implementing agency will be the Department of Agriculture of the concerned State Government. State Level Executive Committee (SLEC) chaired by Principle Secretary (Agriculture)/ Agriculture Production Commissioner shall oversee the implementation of the scheme in their State through regular meeting and will provide inputs to Executive Committee for appropriate policy formulation. The SLEC shall ensure that no crop residue burning takes place in the farmer field.

(v) The District Level Executive Committee shall be responsible for carrying forward the objectives of the scheme for project formulation, implementation and monitoring in the districts and will constitute Surveillance Committees involving farmers group / progressive farmers to mobilize farmers for not burning the crop residue and will also ensure active participation of Panchayati Raj Institutions.

(vi) The DAC&FW will empanel the manufacturer of machines and equipment, identified for in-situ management of crop residue alongwith their costs.

Background:

As per budget 2018-19 announcement, a special scheme to support the efforts of the Governments of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi to address air pollution and to subsidize machinery required for in-situ management of crop residue, a new Central Sector Scheme (100% Central share) in this regard in the States of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi for the period 2018-19 to 2019-20 has been proposed.

*****

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
08-March, 2018 16:37 IST
Government’s policy initiatives in last three years have led to record food grain production this year: Union Agriculture Minister

Technologies developed by State Agriculture Universities & ICAR played a praiseworthy role: Shri Radha Mohan Singh

Strategy Document on Doubling Farmers’ Income by 2022 for different States have been developed through coordinated efforts: Shri Singh

Government’s policy initiatives in the last three years have led to record foodgrain production this year. This was stated by the Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Radha Mohan Singh while addressing Vice Chancellors of State Agriculture Universities and Directors of ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) Institutes in NASC Complex, New Delhi. Shri Singh said that the total food grain production in the country stood at 275.68 million tonnes in 2017-18, which is about 10.64 million tonnes (or 4 percent) more than what was produced in 2013-14. In fact, the production of foodgrain this year is 19 million tonnes more than the average production between 2011-12 and 2015-16. Horticulture, which contributes significantly to nutrition, also witnessed record production at 305 million tonnes in 2016-17, 4.8% more than last year. The production of fruits has crossed 93 million tonnes and vegetables 178 million tonnes. The technologies developed by State Agriculture Universities and ICAR have played a praiseworthy role.

The Minister said State Agriculture Universities and ICAR have been working to make agriculture sustainable and beneficial for our farmers. Despite the challenges, agriculture universities and ICAR have made remarkable progress in agriculture productivity and production thereby helping small and marginal farmers in enhancing their income. Significant steps have been taken to attain Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Doubling Farmers’ Income by 2022”. In a coordinated effort, agriculture universities and ICAR institutes along with various state and central agencies have developed “Strategy Document on Doubling Farmers’ Income by 2022 for different States. This will immensely help in achieving the prosperity of farmers. In addition to this, special emphasis has been given on developing new technologies, integrated farming system, institution building, and human resource, diversification in agriculture, creating new opportunities and developing new sources of information.

Shri Radha Mohan Singh informed that there are about 138 million landholders in the country, out of which about 85% of the farmers are marginal (67%) or small (18%). He asserted that this vulnerable class of farmers is in an urgent need of farming techniques and information. ICAR has developed 45 Integrated Farming System (IFS) models to help small and marginal farmers to tide over the problems associated with climate change. This model is being replicated and taken forward through KVKs spread across the country. Besides this, ICAR has developed 623 certified District Level contingency schemes and organized skill development programs for 40.9 lakh farmers. In order to assist the Government’s “Soil Health Card” initiative, minilabs were developed for soil testing. ICAR through its KVKs spread across the country have displayed climate friendly techniques in 29 States. ICAR has also developed 42 organic farming techniques, which were tested and are being further improved. The government, for the benefit of farmers, has initiated several programs like agriculture extension, Sankalp Se Siddhi, 'Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav, infrastructure development, agriculture education, agricultural research, international cooperation, technology transfer etc.

Also present at the occasion were Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare; Dr. Ramesh Chand, Member, Niti Ayog; Dr. Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary, DARE & DG, ICAR; Dr. C Roul, Special Secreatry, DARE; Dr. Narendra Singh Rathore, Financial Adviser, DARE, Director, IAUA and Deputy Director General (Agricultural Education); and VCs of agriculture universities and Directors of ICAR Institutes. The VCs of State Agricultural Universities, Directors of ICAR institutes and senior officers of ICAR will discuss ways of improving agricultural research and education

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[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
08-March, 2018 18:14 IST
Shri Radha Mohan Singh releases Education Portal – ICAR at the Conference of Vice Chancellors of Agriculture Universities and Directors of ICAR Institutes

The Portal will strengthen and develop higher Agricultural education in India

Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh released the Education portal of ICAR at the Conference of Vice Chancellors of Agriculture Universities and Directors of ICAR Institutes in New Delhi, today. The portal has been developed on the lines of KVK portal released by the Union Agriculture Minister earlier.

Education Portal-ICAR(https://education.icar.gov.in)will act as a single window platform for providing vital education information/announcements/event schedules/e-learningresources from Agricultural Universities across the countryto the rural youth in an easy and fast way on their doorsteps. The portal will alsohelp in management, monitoring and promoting activities/schemes of Education Division, ICAR. Education Portal-ICAR has been designed and developed by the Division of Computer Application, Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute (IASRI) under the guidance of Agricultural Education Division, ICAR.The portal has been developed as an ICAR initiativeunder the Digital India programme of the Prime Minister of India and for the first time all the Agriculture universities have come on the single platform to disseminate the information for benefits of students and farming community.



Features of the Portal

• Provides information on "Strengthening and Development of Higher Agricultural Education in India".
• Provides link and covers vital information of Agricultural universities for the benefit of students.
• Provides information about Courses (Bachelor, Master and Doctoral), Facilities, Student Strength, Faculty Strength and Scholarships.
• Provides Admission Announcements uploaded by universities under "Notifications" at the central place.
• Provides information and search facility about "Events" organized by universities under "Event" menu.
• Provides Advance Search Facility with multiple search options such as Stream, Subject, Course Category and University/College information on Courses along with seats, eligibility criteria and other information.
• Provision for generation of Unique Student ID (USID) by the universities/colleges and the information on the same is displayed university wise under different categories on the home page under the link USID.
• USID will ensure the uniqueness corresponding to the student records in various academic processes and associated online systems.
• Provides access to Academic Management System developed by ICAR-IASRI and operational at Deemed and Central Universities of ICAR. Portal also provides links to other resources/sites important in the arena of Agricultural Education.
• Portal is being used by Education Division, ICAR for data management of Annual reports, financial sanction and release of funds on the basis of online demand and relevant data submitted by universities.
• Several checks, Standard and MIS reports have been developed in the Portal to aid in the monitoring of data.

***

Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
08-March, 2018 16:37 IST
Government’s policy initiatives in last three years have led to record food grain production this year: Union Agriculture Minister

Technologies developed by State Agriculture Universities & ICAR played a praiseworthy role: Shri Radha Mohan Singh

Strategy Document on Doubling Farmers’ Income by 2022 for different States have been developed through coordinated efforts: Shri Singh

Government’s policy initiatives in the last three years have led to record foodgrain production this year. This was stated by the Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Radha Mohan Singh while addressing Vice Chancellors of State Agriculture Universities and Directors of ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) Institutes in NASC Complex, New Delhi. Shri Singh said that the total food grain production in the country stood at 275.68 million tonnes in 2017-18, which is about 10.64 million tonnes (or 4 percent) more than what was produced in 2013-14. In fact, the production of foodgrain this year is 19 million tonnes more than the average production between 2011-12 and 2015-16. Horticulture, which contributes significantly to nutrition, also witnessed record production at 305 million tonnes in 2016-17, 4.8% more than last year. The production of fruits has crossed 93 million tonnes and vegetables 178 million tonnes. The technologies developed by State Agriculture Universities and ICAR have played a praiseworthy role.

The Minister said State Agriculture Universities and ICAR have been working to make agriculture sustainable and beneficial for our farmers. Despite the challenges, agriculture universities and ICAR have made remarkable progress in agriculture productivity and production thereby helping small and marginal farmers in enhancing their income. Significant steps have been taken to attain Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Doubling Farmers’ Income by 2022”. In a coordinated effort, agriculture universities and ICAR institutes along with various state and central agencies have developed “Strategy Document on Doubling Farmers’ Income by 2022 for different States. This will immensely help in achieving the prosperity of farmers. In addition to this, special emphasis has been given on developing new technologies, integrated farming system, institution building, and human resource, diversification in agriculture, creating new opportunities and developing new sources of information.

Shri Radha Mohan Singh informed that there are about 138 million landholders in the country, out of which about 85% of the farmers are marginal (67%) or small (18%). He asserted that this vulnerable class of farmers is in an urgent need of farming techniques and information. ICAR has developed 45 Integrated Farming System (IFS) models to help small and marginal farmers to tide over the problems associated with climate change. This model is being replicated and taken forward through KVKs spread across the country. Besides this, ICAR has developed 623 certified District Level contingency schemes and organized skill development programs for 40.9 lakh farmers. In order to assist the Government’s “Soil Health Card” initiative, minilabs were developed for soil testing. ICAR through its KVKs spread across the country have displayed climate friendly techniques in 29 States. ICAR has also developed 42 organic farming techniques, which were tested and are being further improved. The government, for the benefit of farmers, has initiated several programs like agriculture extension, Sankalp Se Siddhi, 'Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav, infrastructure development, agriculture education, agricultural research, international cooperation, technology transfer etc.

Also present at the occasion were Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare; Dr. Ramesh Chand, Member, Niti Ayog; Dr. Trilochan Mohapatra, Secretary, DARE & DG, ICAR; Dr. C Roul, Special Secreatry, DARE; Dr. Narendra Singh Rathore, Financial Adviser, DARE, Director, IAUA and Deputy Director General (Agricultural Education); and VCs of agriculture universities and Directors of ICAR Institutes. The VCs of State Agricultural Universities, Directors of ICAR institutes and senior officers of ICAR will discuss ways of improving agricultural research and education

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[Hindustani78]

The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh at the Annual Conference of Vice Chancellors of Agricultural Universities and Directors of ICAR Institutes, in New Delhi on March 08, 2018. The Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the Secretary, Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and DG, ICAR, Dr. T. Mohapatra and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh at the Annual Conference of Vice Chancellors of Agricultural Universities and Directors of ICAR Institutes, in New Delhi on March 08, 2018.

The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh at the Annual Conference of Vice Chancellors of Agricultural Universities and Directors of ICAR Institutes, in New Delhi on March 08, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

NITI Aayog
09-March, 2018 18:46 IST
NITI Aayog to work on mechanism for implementation of Minimum Support Price (MSP) for different agricultural crops

In light of the Finance Minister’s budget announcement that NITI Aayog will develop and put in place a fool-proof mechanism, Dr. Rajiv Kumar, Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog presided over a consultation meeting today at NITI Aayog on mechanism for implementation of Minimum Support Price (MSP) for different agricultural crops. Union Minister of State for Agriculture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat along with senior Officers of Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Finance, NITI Aayog and Food and Public Distribution, Prime Minster Office and various State Governments participated in the meeting.

In our country, MSP for 24 agricultural commodities of Kharif and Rabi season are announced by the Government based on the recommendations of the Commission for Agriculture Cost and Prices (CACP). However, procurement by Central and State Agencies is limited to rice and wheat and some amount of coarse cereals. The Government also procures limited quantity of oil seed and pulses through NAFED, SFAC and some other agencies. The market intervention scheme (MIS) is implemented in case of the prices falling below the threshold level in perishable crops.

Three concepts were discussed at the meeting. The first option related to Market Assurance Scheme, which proposes procurement by States and compensation of losses upto certain extent of MSP after the procurement and price realization out of sale of the procured produce. Second option related to price deficiency procurement scheme. Under this scheme, if the sale price is below a modal price then the farmers may be compensated to the difference between MSP and actual price subject to a ceiling which may not exceed 25% of the MSP. No compensation would be due if modal price in neighboring States is above the MSP. Third option related to Private Procurement and Stockist Scheme, which relates to procurement by private entrepreneurs at MSP and Government providing some policy and tax incentives and a commission to such private entities which may be decided on the basis of transparent criteria and bidding for the empanelment of private players by the State Government to do the procurement operations.

The States overwhelmingly welcomed efforts of NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Agriculture for providing a cafeteria of options. They deliberated extensively and gave their inputs on the three options and presented the views of the respective Governments.MOS (Agriculture) stated that more than one options may be adopted by the States depending upon their conditions. Third option of private procurement and stockist scheme offered great promise as it reduces the fiscal implications for the government, involves private entities as partners in agriculture marketing and improves the competition in the market. The Governments liabilities for storage and post procurement management and disposal are also avoided. However, all the three options may not be implemented for the same crop.

Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog brought it upfront to all the States to immediately modify the APMC acts and implement the Model APLMC Act, 2017. He also emphasized the States Government’s responsibility in efficiently implementing the schemes. As regards the incentives to the private entities, he opined to think about a mechanism of providing the some commission to private procurement agencies if they procure on MSP and abide by other terms of the Government. It was decided to modify the concepts quickly on the basis of the suggestions of the States and finalize the mechanism as early as possible preferably by March end.

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[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
10-March, 2018 16:54 IST
Budget 2018 lays special emphasis on animal husbandry: Union Agriculture Minister

Government, with a corpus of Rs 2,450 crore, has set up an Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) for financing infrastructure requirement of animal husbandry sector: Shri Radha Mohan Singh

Milk production increases by 20% from 137.7 million tonnes to 165.4 million tonnes between 2014 and 2017: Shri Radha Mohan Singh

ShriRadha Mohan Singh addresses the 16th convocation ceremony of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI


Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh said that for the last 20 years India has been the largest producer of milk in the world. Shri Singh lauded the role of National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) like research centres for catering to the technical and human resource requirements of the dairy sector. UnionAgriculture Minister said this at the 16thconvocation ceremony of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) in Karnal (Haryana) today.

Shri Singh said that the milk production has increased by 20% from 137.7 million tonnes to 165.4 million tonnes between 2014 and 2017. The per capita availability of milk has risen by 15.6% from 307 gms/day to 355 gms/day between 2013-14 and 2016-17. Similarly, the income of dairy farmers has increased by 23.77% between 2011-14 and 2014-17. He informed that the Government is committed towards ensuring more income to farmers, uplifting the economically backward sections of society, youth employment, better education and healthcare.

Union Minister said that the Government has initiated the “National Mission on Bovine Productivity” in order to help the benefits of animal husbandry schemes reach the farmers directly. In order to increase the number of cattle and buffaloes through breeding inputs, the Government, under this scheme, is spending Rs 825 crores for genetic upgradation. The scheme has been a roaring success in terms of increasing milk production and productivity and thereby proving beneficial to the dairy business. The Government has started a portal e-pashuhaat, under National Mission on Bovine Productivity, to connect breeders with milk producers.

Shri Singh said thatBudget 2018 has laid special emphasis on animal husbandry. In the previous budget, the Dairy Processing & Infrastructure Development Fund (DIDF) was set up with National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) with a corpus of Rs 10,881 crore. This year, the Government, with a corpus of Rs2,450 crore, has set up an Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) for financing infrastructure requirement of animal husbandry sector. In order to meet the working capital requirement of dairy farmers, the facility of Kisan Credit Card has been extended by the government to the fisheries and livestock farmers.

Agriculture Minister said that these initiatives of the Government are intended to increase the potential of self employment in livestock through entrepreneurship. NDRI is committed to training the youth so that they become job-providers instead of job-seekers.He expressed satisfaction over the BPD unit of NDRI in training entrepreneurs.

Shri Singh said the Government has launched “RashtriyaGokul Mission” that aims to conserve and develop indigenous breeds. Acting as centresfor the development and protection of Indigenous Cattle breeds, 20 Gokul Grams have been approved in 13 states.The Government has established two National Kamdhenu Breeding Centres in the country, in Itarsi, Hoshangabad in Northern region and in Chintaladevi, Nellore in Southern region.

The human resources of the universityhas enabled in the development and propagation of technologies that is facilitating in enhancing income of the farmers.

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The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh inaugurating the Rabi Kisan Mela, at the 50th Anniversary of ICAR-CSSRI Karnal, in Haryana on March 10, 2018.

The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh addressing at the 50th Anniversary of ICAR-CSSRI Karnal, in Haryana on March 10, 2018.

The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh presenting an award to a student, at the 16th convocation ceremony of the ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), in Karnal, Haryana on March 10, 2018. The Secretary, Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and DG, ICAR, Dr. T. Mohapatra and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh addressing at the 16th convocation ceremony of the ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), in Karnal, Haryana on March 10, 2018.

The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh at the 16th convocation ceremony of the ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), in Karnal, Haryana on March 10, 2018. The Secretary, Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and DG, ICAR, Dr. T. Mohapatra and other dignitaries are also seen.

 

[Garian]

Agriculture ministry must modernise.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Textiles
12-March, 2018 15:55 IST
Field Inspection and Scientific Evaluation Committee Constituted to Investigate Illegal Cultivation of HT Cotton

The Government today said that it has received several representations for ban of illegal cultivation of Herbicide Tolerant (HT) or BG-III cotton in the country. The Minister of State for Textiles, Ajay Tamta said in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today that there are several media reports and complaints regarding the illegal or unauthorized cultivation of HT cotton in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Gujarat and Maharashtra. He said, Department of Biotechnology in the Ministry of Science and Technology has constituted a Field Inspection and Scientific Evaluation Committee (FISEC) to investigate the matter of illegal cultivation of HT cotton. The Minister also said that the cultivation of BG-III or HT cotton has not been approved by Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC) of Ministry of Environment, Government of India.

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Ministry of Textiles
12-March, 2018 15:54 IST
Centre Taking Steps to Promote Textiles and Apparel Exports: Mos Textiles

The Central Government has taken several steps to improve textile and apparel exports. It has enhanced rates of Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS) from 2 per cent to 4 per cent for apparel and made-ups with effect from 1st November 2017. This information was given by the Minister of State for Textiles, Ajay Tamta in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today. He said, the government has also revised post-GST rates of Rebate of State Levies (RoSL) Scheme implemented from 1st October 2017 and exempted IGST on import under Advance Authorization and Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme. The Minister further said that the Finance Ministry has been requested for allocation of appropriate funds under RoSL for one time settlement of exporters’ claim and faster and complete refund of Input Tax Credit.

In Reply to another question, the MoS Textiles said major issues raised by apparel industry include delay in Input Tax Credit (ITC) refunds, reduction in rates of Rebate for State Levies (RoSL) Scheme, appreciation of Indian Rupee, high Interest Rate and lack of Preferential Market Access as compared to competing nations. He said, the Government has constituted a Committee on Exports under the Revenue Secretary of Ministry of Finance for evolving a suitable strategy for promoting exports post implementation of GST.



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[Hindustani78]

The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh addressing a Curtain Raiser press conference on Krishi Unnati Mela, (to be held from 16th to 18th March, 2018), in New Delhi on March 14, 2018. The Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Panchayati Raj, Shri Parshottam Rupala, the Ministers of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Smt. Krishna Raj are also seen.

The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Radha Mohan Singh addressing a Curtain Raiser press conference on Krishi Unnati Mela, (to be held from 16th to 18th March, 2018), in New Delhi on March 14, 2018. The Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Panchayati Raj, Shri Parshottam Rupala, the Ministers of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Smt. Krishna Raj are also seen.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
14-March, 2018 16:14 IST
Union Agriculture Minister Shri Radha Mohan Singh addresses Curtain Raiser Press Conference for Krishi Unnati Mela being organized from 16th to 18th March, 2018

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to inaugurate the Jaivik Kheti portal and lay foundation stone of 25 KVKs on 17th March, 2018 Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to also confer the Krishi Karman Award & Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Krishi Vigyan Protsahan Puraskar

(Curtain Raiser)


The Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shri Radha Mohan Singh today addressed a Curtain Raiser Press Conference for the upcoming Krishi Unnati Mela 2018. The three-day Annual Krishi Unnati Mela is being organised between March 16 and March 18, 2018 at Mela ground, IARI, Pusa, New Delhi. The Krishi Vigyan Mela (Agriculture Science Fair) was initiated in 1972 and continues to be a highly important annual event of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).

The objective of the mela is to create widespread awareness about the latest agricultural technological developments and receive feedback from the agricultural community, which helps in designing and shaping the Institute’s future research strategy. This mela is organized every year with a specific theme on a priority area of agricultural research and technology transfer.

Likewise, the Krishi Unnati Mela 2018 is being organized between March 16 and March 18, 2018 at Mela ground, IARI, Pusa, New Delhi. Lakhs of farmers are expected to attend the mela. Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), State Agriculture Universities (SAUs), state agriculture/horticulture departments, entrepreneurs, private agencies involved in agriculture will also participate in the mela.

Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, on March 17, 2018, will address the farmers, agricultural scientists and other participants during the mela. Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Jaivik Kheti portal and lay the foundation stone of 25 KVKs. He will also confer the Krishi Karman Award & Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Krishi Vigyan Protsahan Puraskar.



Major highlights of the mela are:

• More than 800 stalls
• Display of latest Agriculture & allied sector technologies
• Live Demonstrations on Micro- Irrigation, waste water utilization, Animal Husbandry (Pashudhan) and Fisheries etc.
• Seminars and conferences

Theme Pavilions will also cover:

• Theme pavilion: Doubling Farmers income by 2022
• Jaivik Maha Kumbh- on organic farming
• Sahkar Samelan
• Pavilion for inputs (seeds, fertilizers, pesticides supplying agencies)
• Horticulture/ Dairy, Animal Husbandry, Fisheries
• ICAR/ IARI
• Stalls of Ministry of Textile, Ministry of Food Processing and Industry, Ministry of Commerce and North East Council have also been set up.

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[Hindustani78]

The Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Panchayati Raj, Shri Parshottam Rupala releasing the ‘Samrasta Sandesh’ magazine of Bhartiya Bodh Sangh by Shri Dushyant Kumar Gautamji, at a function, in New Delhi on March 15, 2018.

The Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Panchayati Raj, Shri Parshottam Rupala addressing at the release of the ‘Samrasta Sandesh’ magazine of Bhartiya Bodh Sangh by Shri Dushyant Kumar Gautamji, in New Delhi on March 15, 2018.