In New Delhi, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Thursday expressed satisfaction over the increase in pulse cultivation during the ongoing kharif sowing season 2024-25, with an increase in the area under pulses of more than 50 percent, especially in Tur.
Reviewing the progress of kharif (summer) crops at Krishi Bhawan, Chouhan said achieving self-sufficiency in pulses production is a priority for the country and called for concerted efforts in this direction.
The minister reiterated the Centre's commitment to 100 per cent procurement of Urad, Arhar and Masur in all states and urged to create awareness to encourage more farmers to grow pulses, an official statement said.
The area sown to pulses has increased by 50 per cent to 36.81 lakh hectares till the last week of the ongoing kharif season from 23.78 lakh hectares a year ago, according to Agriculture Ministry data.
Sowing of pulses and other kharif crops begins with the onset of the southwest monsoon in June, while harvesting takes place from September onwards.
As the Kharif sowing season progresses, all eyes will be on whether this early surge in pulse cultivation translates into higher production.
India is striving to reduce its dependence on imports and strengthen domestic agricultural production. With this renewed focus on pulses, the government hopes to address nutritional security while supporting farmers' incomes.
During the meeting, Chouhan was briefed about the onset of monsoon, groundwater situation and availability of seeds and fertilizers.
Emphasizing the importance of timely availability of fertilizers for kharif and rabi crops, the minister advised the Fertilizer Department to ensure that DAP fertilizers are available as per state demands.
The review meeting was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Indian Meteorological Department, Central Water Commission and Department of Fertilizers.
Reviewing the progress of kharif (summer) crops at Krishi Bhawan, Chouhan said achieving self-sufficiency in pulses production is a priority for the country and called for concerted efforts in this direction.
The minister reiterated the Centre's commitment to 100 per cent procurement of Urad, Arhar and Masur in all states and urged to create awareness to encourage more farmers to grow pulses, an official statement said.
The area sown to pulses has increased by 50 per cent to 36.81 lakh hectares till the last week of the ongoing kharif season from 23.78 lakh hectares a year ago, according to Agriculture Ministry data.
Sowing of pulses and other kharif crops begins with the onset of the southwest monsoon in June, while harvesting takes place from September onwards.
As the Kharif sowing season progresses, all eyes will be on whether this early surge in pulse cultivation translates into higher production.
India is striving to reduce its dependence on imports and strengthen domestic agricultural production. With this renewed focus on pulses, the government hopes to address nutritional security while supporting farmers' incomes.
During the meeting, Chouhan was briefed about the onset of monsoon, groundwater situation and availability of seeds and fertilizers.
Emphasizing the importance of timely availability of fertilizers for kharif and rabi crops, the minister advised the Fertilizer Department to ensure that DAP fertilizers are available as per state demands.
The review meeting was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Indian Meteorological Department, Central Water Commission and Department of Fertilizers.
