ANNUAL PLAN 2013-14 Department of Agriculture & Cooperation Ministry of Agriculture Krishi Bhawan New Delhi March 2013 CONTENTS Sl No Name of Mission/Scheme Page No. 1 Introduction 1-5 2 National Food Security Mission (NFSM) 6-10 3 National Horticulture Mission (NHM) 11-16 4 National Mission on Oilseeds & Oil Palm (NMOOP) 17-18 5 National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) 19-22 6 National Mission on Agricultural Extension & Technology (NMAET) 23-34 7 Integrated Scheme for Farmers Income Security (ISFIS) 35-36 8 Integrated Scheme on Agri-Census & Statistics (ISAC&S) 37-40 9 Integrated Scheme on Agriculture Marketing (ISAM) 41-43 10 Integrated Scheme on Agriculture Cooperation (ISAC) 44-45 11 Secretariat Economic Service (SES) 46 12 Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) 47 13 Annexure 48-66 Chapter 1 Introduction 1.1 AGRICULTURE provides livelihood to majority of population and thus remains linchpin of Indian economy. Though agriculture sector’s contribution to national GDP has declined to 13.9% in 2011-12 due to relatively higher growth experienced in industries and services sectors, agriculture remains the principal source of livelihood for more than 58% of country’s population. Indian economy is growing and to sustain this growth agriculture sector has to perform well. How to produce more of agriculture produce with limited natural resources in sustainable manner for ensuring food and nutritional security and increasing income of farmers, are major challenges before the Nation. Investment in Agriculture 1.2 As a result of initiatives taken by Government, share of public investment in Gross Capital Formation in agriculture and allied sectors has been going up in recent years. During 2004-05 to 2007-08, total investment in agriculture increased in the range of 8% to 14.2% per annum. Public sector investment increased faster, in range of 17.6% to 22.5%. This trend continued in subsequent years. The Plan Outlay on various schemes of Department of Agriculture & Cooperation (DAC) has increased substantially from Rs. 9865.68 crore in 2008-09 (RE) to Rs.20208.00 crore in 2012-13 (BE). Increase is mainly due to substantially higher allocation under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), which was launched in 2007-08 with aim to boost agricultural growth rate and to incentivize states to increase public investment in agriculture and allied sector. Out of total outlay of Rs.66577 crore for the Eleventh Plan, the actual expenditure was Rs.61065.80 crore. Estimated Production in 2011-12 1.3 As per fourth Advance Estimates of production of foodgrain, oilseeds and other commercial crops for 2011-12, released by Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation, food grain production reached a peak production level of 257.44 million tonne in 2011-12 (with record wheat and rice production) recovering from a low production level of 174.77 million tonne in 2002-03. Among coarse cereals maize especially in case of rabi maize has performed well over the decade. Maize production has increased to 21.57 million tonne in 2011-12 which was record production. In the case of commercial crops, Oilseeds production has increased from 20.6 million tonne in 2000-01 to 30.00 million tonne in 2011-12, especially due to better performance of soyabean, Groundnut and castor seed. Cotton is another crop which has performed well with result that production has more than tripled from less than 10 million bales in 2001-02 to 33.4 million bales in 2011-12. Allocation of Funds 1.4 The proposed Plan Outlay on various schemes of the Department for the year 2013-14 is Rs. 26164.21 crore including State Plan Schemes. Flagship and Major Programmes of Department of Agriculture Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) 1.5 This scheme was launched in 2007-08 with the aim to incentivize states to increase public investment in agriculture and allied sector to boost agricultural growth rate. RKVY has become exceedingly popular with States on account of flexibility and autonomy provided in process of planning and execution of agriculture and allied sector schemes. Funds utilization under the Scheme by states has improved remarkably. The outlay under RKVY is proposed at Rs. 12,500 crores for 2013-14. Extending Green Revolution to the Eastern States 1.6 This new initiative was announced in Budget 2010-11 with an allocation of Rs 400 crore under RKVY and is continuing. This programme envisages adoption of new seed varieties, farm machinery, integrated nutrient & pest management, and knowledge based interventions developed for different agro climatic zones. The programme is under implementation in Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal & Odisha. Recently, Assam has also been included under this initiative. Pulses and Oilseeds villages 1.7 Another initiative with allocation of Rs. 300 crore under RKVY has been announced for increasing production of oil seeds and pulses in 60000 ‘Pulses and Oilseeds villages’ in rainfed areas to provide an integrated intervention of water harvesting, watershed management and soil health, to enhance the productivity of dry land farming areas. This initiative is also continuing. Other Sub-Schemes announced under RKVY. 1.8 Eight sub-schemes were introduced in 2011-12 under RKVY, viz (i) Saffron Mission in J&K; (ii) Promotion of Oil Palm: (iii) Initiative on Vegetable Clusters; (iv) Nutri-cereals; (v) National Mission for Protein Supplements; (vi).Accelerated Fodder Development Programme; (vii) Rainfed Area Development Programme and (viii) Vidarbha Intensive Irrigation Development Project (VIIDP). National Food Security Mission (NFSM) 1.9 Presently NFSM-Rice covers 210 districts, NFSM-Wheat covers 166 districts and NFSM-Pulses covers 468 districts. From Kharif 2010, pulses component of Integrated Scheme of Oilseeds Pulses Oilpalm and Maize (ISOPOM) has been merged under NFSM Pulses to intensify efforts for production of pulses. Thus, NFSM is being implemented during 2012-13 in 561 identified districts of 27 States of the country. Accelerated Pulses Production Programme 1.10 A new initiative ‘Accelerated Pulses Production Programme (A3P)’ was launched as part of NFSM Pulses from 2010-11. One million hectares of potential areas for the major pulses crops - tur, urad, moong, gram and lentil has been taken up for large scale demonstration of production and protection technologies in compact blocks. Initiation of Management Information System (MIS) 1.11 Management Information System (MIS) for online submission of progress report at state, district levels has been initiated to capture real time data. Regular updating of state and district level data is under progress. National Horticulture Mission 1.12 Horticulture is being promoted by DAC in mission mode for improving farm income and livelihood security and enhancing employment generation. India is the second largest producer of fruits and vegetables. All States and UTs are covered under Mission except the states that are covered under the Horticulture Mission for North East & Himalayan States (HMNEH). The Mission endeavors for holistic development of horticulture sector duly ensuring forward and backward linkages by adopting cluster approach, with active participation of all stake-holders. At present, 380 districts in 18 States and 3 Union Territories have been covered under NHM. Horticulture Mission for North East and Himalayan States (HMNEH) 1.13 Technology Mission for North Eastern States, including Sikkim aimed at holistic development of all horticulture crops has now been renamed as Horticulture Mission for North East and Himalayan States (HMNEH). Cost norms under the scheme have been revised from 2010-11. Major thrust areas under Mission are setting up nurseries for production and distribution of quality planting materials, area expansion, rejuvenation of old / unproductive orchards, precision farming, organic farming, creation of water resources, promotion of INM and IPM, cold storage units and market infrastructure development. National Mission on Micro Irrigation (NMMI) 1.14 This Scheme aims to improve water use efficiency that also leads to reduced requirement of fertilizers due to improvement in fertilizer use efficiency on account of fertigation, and savings in water can be used to augment area under irrigation and thereby increase productivity. Assistance is provided @ 60% of total cost of the system to small and marginal farmers and @ 50% to general category farmers. Integrated Scheme of Oilseeds, Pulses, Oil Palm and Maize (ISOPOM) 1.15 This scheme is being implemented in 14 major states for oilseeds and pulses, 15 states for maize and 8 states for the Oil palm. The pulses component of ISOPOM has been merged with NFSM-Pulses w.e.f 1.4.2010 to provide focused approach for pulses production programme. Support to State Extension Programmes for Extension Reforms 1.16 Objective of Scheme is to make extension system farmer-driven and farmer-accountable by way of new institutional arrangements for technology dissemination. 588 Agricultural Technology Management Agencies (ATMAs) have been established at district level to operationalize extension reforms. With the approval of CCEA, the scheme has been modified in 2010 to provide for following activities: Provision of specialist and functionary support at different levels. Innovative support through ‘Farmer Friend’ at village level. Revision in ATMA Cafeteria. Farmers’ Advisory Committees at State, District and Block levels. Summary of Expenditure during Eleventh Five Year Plan and 1st year i.e. 2012-13 of Twelfth Five Year Plan 1.17 For Eleventh Five Year Plan, Department of Agriculture & Cooperation (DAC) had proposed an outlay of Rs. 51052.12 crore keeping in view the thrust areas identified for the Eleventh Plan. Though Planning Commission approved Plan outlay of Rs.66577 crore including 25000 crore for Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana for DAC for the Eleventh Plan, year-wise allocation and expenditure is as under:- (Rupees in crore) Sl. No. Year BE RE Expenditure 1 2007-08 5560.00 6927.94 7058.50 2 2008-09 10105.67 9865.68 9530.30 3 2009-10 11307.07 10965.23 10870.15 4 2010-11 15042.00 17254.00 17052.59 5 2011-12 17122.87 16515.05 16554.33 Total 59137.61 61527.90 61065.87* *Provisional For the 1st year of Twelfth Five Year Plan i.e. 2012-13, BE and RE is Rs. 20208.00 crores and Rs. 17867.32 crores respectively. The expenditure during the year is Rs. 13478.19 crores as on 31.12.2012 (provisional). Minimum Support Prices 1.18 In order to achieve a balance between production of cereals and non-cereals, the Government offers Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) so that farmers get remunerative prices. 1.19 MSP of kharif crops of 2012-13 have been announced which has been raised: paddy by Rs.80 per quintal, ragi by Rs.85 per quintal, jowar, bajra and maize by Rs. 100 per quintal. Minimum Support Price of arhar (tur) moong and urad has been increased by Rs.200, Rs. 330 and Rs. 400 per quintal, respectively. Additional incentive at the rate of Rs.5 per kg of tur, urad and moong sold to the procurement agencies during the harvest /arrival period of two months has also been provided. MSP for groundnut-in-shell and sunflower seed has been increased by Rs.400 and 450 per quintal, respectively. MSP of soyabean and sesamum has been increased by Rs. 250 per quintal and that of niger seed by Rs. 450 per quintal. MSP of cotton has also been increased by Rs. 300 per bale, as compared to last year price. 1.20 MSP of Rabi crops of 2011-12 season to be marketed in 2012-13, have been announced. MSP for wheat has been fixed at Rs.1285 per quintal from Rs. 1120 per quintal during the previous year. MSP for barley has been increased by Rs.200 per quintal. MSP for gram and safflower has been increased by Rs.700 per quintal. Annual Plan 2013-14 1.21 The scheme-wise break-up of proposed outlay of 26,164.24 crore under Central Sector Schemes, Centrally Sponsored Schemes and State Plan Scheme is placed at Annexure – 2.1. Out of proposed outlay of Rs.26,164.24 crore, 10 per cent of Central Plan has been earmarked for the North Eastern States, 16.2 per cent to Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP), 8 per cent to Tribal Sub Plan (TSP), as per the standing guidelines. The Planning Commission is yet to finalize the Twelfth Five Year Plan. 1.22 The proposed Plan outlay of Department of Agriculture & Cooperation for the Annual Plan 2013-14 is Rs. 26,164.24 crores inclusive of State Plan Scheme. The details of the proposed outlay for the Annual Plan 2013-14, scheme-wise is given in Annexure 2.1 1.23 As against the proposed outlay of Rs. 26,164.24 crore for the Annual Plan 2013-14, Planning Commission conveyed its approval to an outlay of Rs. 21,609 crore (Rs. 11,655 crore for Central Plan and Rs. 9954 crore for State Plan – Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana). The scheme-wise break-up of approved outlay of 21,609 crore under Central Sector Schemes, Centrally Sponsored Schemes and State Plan Scheme is placed at Annexure – V & VI. Out of approved outlay of Rs. 21,609 crore, 10 per cent of approved Central Plan has been earmarked for the North Eastern States, 16.2 per cent to Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) and 8 per cent to Tribal Sub Plan (TSP), as per the standing guidelines. Planning Commission has also informed tentatively allocation for XII Five Year Plan of Department of Agriculture & Cooperation in the tune of Rs. 1,34,746 crore (Rs. 71,500 crore for Central Plan and Rs.63,246 crore for State Plan - Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana) Annexure - VII. ***** Chapter 2 NATIONAL FOOD SECURITY MISSION (NFSM) 2.1 NATIONAL FOOD SECURITY MISSION (NFSM) Based on the resolution adopted by the National Development Council (NDC) to launch a Food Security Mission in the country to enhance the production of rice, wheat and pulses by 10, 8 and 2 million tones, respectively by the end of XI Plan, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme on National Food Security Mission has been launched from Rabi, 2007-08 with three major components viz. NFSM-Rice, NFSM-Wheat and NFSM-Pulses. Objectives: The aim of the Mission is to increase production of rice, wheat and pulses through area expansion and productivity enhancement; restoring soil fertility and productivity; creating employment opportunities; and enhancing farm level economy to restore confidence of farmers of targeted districts. Area of Operation: The component-wise implementation of the National Food Security Mission is as follows: NFSM-Rice: The NFSM-Rice is being implemented in 210 districts of 24 States, i.e., Andhra Pradesh (11), Arunachal Pradesh (13), Assam (13), Bihar (18), Chhattisgarh (10), Himachal Pradesh (3), Gujarat (2), Jharkhand (7), Karnataka (7), Kerala (1), Madhya Pradesh (9), Maharashtra (6), Manipur (9), Meghalaya (7), Mizoram (8), Nagaland (11), Odisha (15), Sikkim (4), Tamil Nadu (5), Tripura (8), Uttar Pradesh (27), Uttarakhand (5), West Bengal (8) and Jammu & Kashmir (3). NFSM-Wheat: The NFSM-Wheat is being implemented in 166 districts of 12 States i.e. Bihar (25 districts), Gujarat (4 districts), Haryana (7 districts), Jammu & Kashmir (6 districts), Madhya Pradesh (30 districts), Maharashtra (8 districts), Punjab (10 districts), Rajasthan (15 districts), Uttar Pradesh (39 districts) West Bengal (4 districts), Himachal Pradesh (10 districts), and Uttarakhand (8 districts). NFSM-Pulses: The National Food Security Mission (NFSM)-Pulses is being implemented in 468 districts of 16 States i.e. Andhra Pradesh (22 districts), Assam (10 Districts), Bihar (38 districts), Chhattisgarh (18 districts), Gujarat (26 districts), Haryana (21 districts), Jharkhand (17 Districts), Karnataka (30 districts), Madhya Pradesh (50 districts), Maharashtra (33 districts), Orissa (30 districts), Punjab (20 districts), Rajasthan (33 districts), Tamil Nadu (30 districts), Uttar Pradesh (72 districts) and West Bengal (18 districts). Strategies: The following main strategies are being followed under the scheme: (i) Implementation in a mission mode through active engagement of all the stakeholders at various levels, (ii) Promotion and extension of improved technologies i.e. seed, integrated nutrient management including micro-nutrients, soil amendments, IPM and resource conservation technologies along with capacity building of farmers, (iii) Flow of fund would be closely monitored to ensure that interventions reach the target beneficiaries in time, (iv) Various interventions proposed would be integrated with the district plan and targets for each identified districts would be fixed, and (v) Constant monitoring and concurrent evaluation for assessing the impact of the interventions for a result oriented approach by the implementing agencies. INTERVENTIONS INCLUDED: NFSM-Rice: The interventions covered under NFSM-Rice include Cluster Demonstrations on Direct Seeded Rice/Line Transplanting /SRI, Hybrid Rice, Swarna Sub-1/Sahbhagi Dhan, Frontline Demonstration by ICAR/SAUs on Hybrids/Varieties, Seed Distribution of Hybrid Rice Seed and HYVs Seeds, Plant and Soil Protection Management on Micro Nutrients, cono-weeders, zero till seed drills, multi-crop planters, seed drills, Zero Till Multi-crop planters, rotavators, Laser Land Levellers and Marker/Drum Seeder, Initiative for Pump Sets, Cropping System based Trainings and Project Management Team, Local Initiatives etc. NFSM-Wheat: The interventions covered under NFSM-Wheat include Cluster Demonstrations on Conservation Agriculture, Demonstration of Drainage Management in Waterlogged Areas, Demonstration on Frontline Technologies-Varieties/RCT in Wheat, Distribution of Certified seeds of Improved Varieties, Micronutrients, Gypsum, Plant Protection Chemicals & Bio-agents, knap sack sprayers, zero till seed drills, multi-crop planters, seed drills, Zero Till Multi-crop planters, Ridge Furrow Planter, rotavators, Laser Land Levellers, pump sets, sprinkler, cropping system based trainings, Project Management Team and Local Initiatives etc. NFSM-Pulses: The interventions covered under NFSM-Pulses include distribution of certified seeds, demonstration on improved technologies, frontline demonstration, micro-nutrient, lime /gypsum, Rhizobium Culture/Phosphate Solubalising Bacteria distribution/Microrrizha, IPM Package, Distribution of NPV, PP Chemicals, Weedicide, knap sack sprayers, zero till seed drills, Multi-crop planters, seed drills, Zero Till Multi-crop planters, Ridge Furrow Planter, rotavators, Laser Land Levellers, Sprinkler Sets Mobile Sprinkler Rainguns Pump Sets, Pipe for carrying water from source to the field, cropping system based trainings, Project Management Team and Local Initiative etc. In addition, Accelerated Pulses Production Programme (A3P) has been launched under NFSM-Pulses from Kharif 2010 for Demonstrations of Production and Protection Technologies on Village Level Compact Blocks for enhanced production of pulses as well as motivating Farmers. ANNUAL PLAN 2013-14: Components proposed during 2013-14 are Accelerated Crop Production Programme (ACCP), Need based inputs under Rice, Wheat, Pulses and Coarse Cereals, Value Chain Integration, Awards including international exposure visits & visits, Local Initiative, Research support to institutions, Evaluation, PMT, Project to combat climate change (High Productivity areas), Assistance for availing the services of custom hiring centres, Support to Institutes including NGOs for assistance to farmers in remote areas etc. 10% EARMARKING OF FUNDS FOR NORTH EASTERN REGION: All the North Eastern States have now been included under NFSM during 2013-14. Accordingly it has been proposed to allocate Rs. 247.00 crore for North Eastern Region, i.e., 10% of the total proposed allocation of Rs.2470.00 crore for 2013-14. Against the BE of Rs.1850.00 crores for the year 2012-13, Rs. 1385.07 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 2470.00 crores. 2.2 TECHNOLOGY SUB-MISSION ON COTTON In view of low yield & poor lint quality of cotton as compared to many others countries, the Government of India launched a Technology Mission on Cotton (TMC). The TMC became operational since 2000-2001. The aim of the mission is to increase the production, productivity & improve the quality of cotton. The Mini Mission-II of TMC is for enhancing production and productivity and is implemented by Department of Agriculture & Cooperation. MINI MISSION- II OF TECHNOLOGY SUB-MISSION ON COTTON The Scheme is being implemented by Department of Agriculture & Cooperation, Ministry of Agriculture. The Mini Mission-II of Technology Mission on Cotton is under implementation in 13 States viz; Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Tripura. The following main strategies are being followed under the scheme: Increasing the availability of quality seeds. Covering more area under hybrids including Bt Cotton & thrust for evolving area specific production technology. Popularizations of Integrated Pest Management methods to minimize the use of pesticides through farmers, participatory approach based on the FAO model of Farmers Field School resulting in reduction in cost of production. Increasing irrigated area by efficient use of irrigation water through drip and sprinkler. More focus for transfer of technology to farmers through demonstration & training of the extension workers, dealers and farmers. Main components of Mini Mission-II of TMC Production & supply of certified seeds of varieties/hybrid released during last 15 years. Transfer of technology through technology demonstration by involving farmers in practical oriented trainings. Establishment or strengthening of bio-agents production units. Plant Protection measures like Insecticide Resistance Management (IRM), IPM demonstration, popularization of FAO model of Farmers’ Field School, surveillance of diseases and pests, supply of sprayers/pheromones traps/bio-agents etc. Supply of water saving devices like sprinkler & drip irrigation. Any new intervention/component by the states within the ten percent of allocation. Against the BE of Rs. 15.00 crores for the year 2012-13, Rs. 10.59 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 20.00 crores. 2.3 TECHNOLOGY SUB-MISSION ON JUTE The Mini Mission-II of Jute Technology Mission (JTM) on development / extension of raw jute is implemented by the Department of Agriculture & Cooperation for increasing production, productivity and quality of raw-jute (jute, mesta and allied fiber). Mini Mission-II became operational from 2007-08. The Mini Mission-II is under implementation in 10 states viz. Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Orissa, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. Main Strategies of MM-II of JTM Transfer of technology through field demonstration as well as training of farmers & extension workers Increasing the availability of quality seeds. Emphasis for popularization of IPM methods. Increasing efforts for adoption of retting technology for improving fibre quality. Popularization of farm implements. Establishment of degumming and decortications units for ramie crop. Main Components of Mini Mission-II of JTM Production and supply of certified seeds. Transfer of technology through field demonstrations as well as training of farmers & extension workers Establishment of retting tanks, supply of fungal culture etc. for improving fibre quality. Establishment of degumming and decortications units for ramie crop Supply of farm implements and soil ameliorants. Popularization of IPM practices. Against the BE of Rs. 10.00 crores for the year 2012-13, Rs. 2.74 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 10.00 crores. ***** Chapter 3 NATIONAL HORTICULTURE MISSION (NHM) 3.1 NATIONAL HORTICULTURE MISSION (NHM) The Centrally Sponsored Scheme “National Horticulture Mission” (NHM) has been launched in 2005-06 for the holistic development of horticulture sector duly ensuring horizontal and vertical linkages, with the active participation of all the stake-holders. All the States and three UTs of Andaman Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep and Puducherry are covered under the Mission except eight North-Eastern States including Sikkim and the States of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, which are covered under the Horticulture Mission for North East and Himalayan States (HMNEHS). At present, 380 districts in 18 States and 3 Union Territories have been covered under NHM. Mission Objectives The Mission’s objectives are to promote holistic growth of the horticulture sector through area/regionally differentiated strategies; to enhance horticulture production, improve nutritional security and income support to farm households and others; to establish convergence and synergy among multiple ongoing and planned programmes for horticulture development; to promote, develop and disseminate technologies; to generate employment for skilled and unskilled persons, especially unemployed youth. The Mission envisages an end-to-end approach covering production, post harvest management, processing and marketing to assure appropriate returns to growers/producers; promote R&D technologies for production, post harvest management and processing; enhance acreage, coverage, and productivity in potential belts/clusters; adopt a coordinated approach and promote partnerships, convergence and synergy among R & D, processing and marketing agencies in public as well as private sectors, at all levels; promote, where appropriate, National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) model of cooperative to ensure support and adequate returns to farmers and promote capacity building and Human Resource Development at all levels. New Initiatives New interventions have been included in the Scheme such as High Density Plantations (HDP), Horticulture Mechanization and certification of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP). Besides, cost norms of some of the activities like setting up of nurseries, area expansion, rejuvenation programmes and protected cultivation have been revised to provide better incentives to the farmers for adopting improved technologies and cultivars. The cost norms and pattern of assistance for Post Harvest Management (PHM) have been enhanced to encourage private sector participation in building PHM infrastructure. Convergence of NHM with the Schemes of other Departments At National level the convergence is ensured by dovetailing the resources of the concerned departments viz. ICAR for research, Ministry of Food Processing Industries for implementing and monitoring programmes relating to processing Industries for implementing and promoting and coordinating development of Agri Export Zones (AEZ) for horticulture crops. The Department of Rural Development is also involved closely for providing road connectivity to the crops Clusters in the NHM districts. At the Department level, convergence is ensured with the scheme on Micro irrigation, RKVY and watershed development programmes. At State level, convergence is ensured with the related programmes viz. MNERGA, National Mission on Medicinal Plant Board, Border Area Development Programme etc.. During 2011-12 (up to October, 2011), an area of 1.43 lakh ha has been covered under area expansion of new gardens besides setting up of 29 nurseries. Under the component of rejuvenation of old and senile orchards, an area of 0.46 lakh ha., 0.56 lakh ha. under promotion of IPM, 4950 ha. under adoption of organic farming has been covered. 11 IPM infrastructure units have been set up and 1.94 vermi-compost units established. 1513 community water harvesting structures have been created. 7848 colonies with hives have been distributed. Under the component of Integrated Post Harvest Management, 1017 units have been established which include 503 pack houses, 59 cold storage units, 380 low cost onion storages, 8 refrigerated vans, 17 ripening chambers and 46 Primary/Mobile Processing units. Under Markets/Apni Mandis and 1 functional infrastructure for collection, shorting, grading, etc., have been set up. Against the BE of Rs. 1350.00 crores for the year 2012-13, Rs. 727.57 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 1650.00 crores. 3.2 Horticulture Sub-Mission for North East & Himalayan States A Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Horticulture Mission for North East & Himalayan States” (formerly “Technology Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture in North Eastern States including Sikkim (TMNE)”) is being implemented in all the eight North Eastern States and three Himalayan States namely Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The scheme is being implemented as per revised cost norms and pattern of assistance approved by CCEA. The main objectives of the Mission are: (i) to harness the potential of Horticulture of the region by increasing production and productivity of Horticultural crops. (ii) to maximize economic, ecological and social benefits through desirable diversification. (iii) to develop additional infrastructure for production of planting material, storage and marketing of Horticultural produce. (iv) to provide skillful employment in the region. Structure of the Mission Technology Mission is being implemented in a mission mode with an end-to-end approach which includes development and introduction of high yielding varieties and technologies, expansion of area, post harvest handling and management, value addition and infrastructure development for marketing. The mini missions under the Horticulture Mission are not separate and independent activities, but are dovetailed in such a way that activities and programmes in one mini mission supplement and complement the activities and programmes of other mini missions in order to build in synergy with various programmes of different mini missions. Mini Mission-I: Research – coordinated and implemented by Indian Council of Agricultural Research. This Mini mission concentrates on technology generation appropriate to the region. Major components under MM-I are supply of basic seed and planting material, technology standardization and refinement, on farm demonstration and training. Mini Mission-II: Production and Productivity Improvement – coordinated by Department of Agriculture & Cooperation and implemented by State Departments of Horticulture/Agriculture. This Mini mission aims at increasing production and productivity of horticulture crops by adoption of improved production technologies Mini Mission-III: Post-harvest management and Marketing-coordinated by Department of Agriculture & Cooperation, implemented by Directorate of Marketing & Inspection and National Horticulture Board. This mission aims at generation of post harvest management technique which includes development of cold storage facilities, efficient transport and marketing facilities. Mini Mission-IV: Processing-coordinated and implemented by Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India. This Mini Mission aims at setting up of new processing units, up gradation and modernization of existing processing units and other promotional activities. Monitoring of the Scheme: At the National Level, the implementation of the programmes of all the four Mini-Missions of the scheme are being regularly reviewed and monitored by a Central Steering Committee headed by Secretary (A&C). The Mini Mission wise programmes are being reviewed and monitored by concerned Steering Committees. At State Level, the programmes are being regularly reviewed and monitored by a State Level Steering Committee headed by Chief Secretary/APC/Mission Director of the concerned State. Technology Mission Cell in the Department of Agriculture & Cooperation would coordinate with all concerned in implementation of the Mission and is responsible for budget formulation, release of funds to SFAC and other agencies, obtaining approval of proposals at appropriate level and preparation of consolidated reports. Against an outlay of Rs. 500.00 crore for the year 2012-13, Rs. 328.06 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 550.00 crores. 3.3 National Sub-Mission on Bamboo Technology and Trade With a view to harness the potential of bamboo crop in the country, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme called National Bamboo Mission (NBM) is being implemented in 27 States in the country with a total outlay of Rs. 568.23 crore since 2006-07. The Mission envisages promoting holistic growth of bamboo sector by adopting area-based, regionally differentiated strategy and to increase the area under bamboo cultivation and marketing. Under the Mission, steps have been taken to increase the availability of quality planting material by supporting the setting up of new nurseries/tissue culture units and strengthening of existing ones. To address forward integration, the Mission is taking steps to strengthen marketing of bamboo products, especially those of handicraft items. Against an outlay of Rs. 90.00 crore for the year 2012-13, Rs. 55.19 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 150.00 crores. 3.4 National Horticulture Board The National Horticulture Board was established in 1984 as an autonomous registered society under this department, with its headquarters in Gurgaon and 35 field offices located all over the country. Its main objectives are the creation of production hubs for commercial horticulture development, post harvest infrastructure and cold chain facilities, promotion of new technologies, introduction and promotion of new crops, and promotion of growers’ associations. There are 3 major Schemes of the National Horticulture Board which are as follows: - (i) Development of Commercial Horticulture through Production and Post-Harvest Management: - Under the scheme, back ended capital investment subsidy @ not exceeding 20% of the total project cost with a maximum limit of Rs.25.00 lakh per project is provided to those projects which are found technically and financially viable for high-tech commercial horticulture, creation of post harvest infrastructure facilities, marketing and primary processing for horticulture crops. For the North-Eastern/Tribal/Hilly Areas, maximum limit of subsidy is Rs.30.00 lakh per project. This scheme is credit linked and is being implemented throughout the country. (ii) Investment Subsidy for Construction/Expansion/Modernization of Cold Storages and Storages for Horticulture Produce:- Under the scheme, the Board provides back-ended capital investment subsidy to the eligible organizations for creation/ modernization/expansion of cold storage/CA storage @ 40% of the project cost. For NE Regions, the subsidy is @ 55% of the project cost for a maximum storage capacity of 5000 MT per project. The scheme is demand driven. (iii) Technology Development and Transfer for Horticulture Produce:- The Board under this scheme is also providing financial assistance for following various components with a view to update farmers about latest advancements in the field of hi-tech horticulture including organizing seminars/symposia/agriculture fairs/exhibitions and sponsoring farmers for inter state visits by State Govt. Against the BE of Rs. 175.00 crores for the year 2012-13, Rs. 140.66 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 200.00 crores. 3.5 Coconut Development Board including Technology Sub-Mission on Coconut The Coconut Development Board was established by an Act of Parliament in 1979 and came into existence on 12.1.1981. The Board is implementing various programmes like production and distribution of planting material, expansion of area under coconut and integrated farming in coconut holdings for productivity improvement and a technology mission on coconut etc. The Coconut Development Board’s activities/programmes are as follows: (i) Production and Distribution of Planting Material (ii) Expansion of Area under Coconut (iii) Integrated Farming for Productivity Improvement (iv) Technology Demonstration (v) Market Promotion & Statistics (vi) Coconut Palm Insurance scheme (vii) Information and Information Technology (viii) Human Resource Development (ix) Technology Mission on Coconut (x) Replanting and Rejuvenation of Coconut Gardens Against an outlay of Rs. 55.00 crore for the year 2012-13, Rs. 41.25 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 80.00 crores. 3.6 Central Institute of Horticulture in Nagaland Recognizing the importance for providing institutional support to the development of horticulture in the “North-Eastern Region”, the Government of India approved in January, 2006, a Central Sector Scheme for setting up of Central Institute of Horticulture in Nagaland with the following objectives: Capacity building by training of trainers, extension officers, farmers, entrepreneurs, processors and exporters; Demonstration of improved technologies such as use of improved varieties / hybrids, adoption of INM/IPM practices, Hi-tech farming, precision farming, protected cultivation, post harvest technologies, etc.; Follow on extension support in the field of horticulture; Promotion of organic cultivation of horticultural crops; Establishing convergence and synergy among programmes in the field of horticultural research and development; and Monitoring of Centrally Sponsored programmes in the area of horticulture. Against the BE of Rs. 9.00 crores for the year 2012-13, Rs.0.00 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 15.76 crores. ***** Chapter 4 NATIONAL MISSION ON OILSEEDS & OIL PALM (NMOOP) 4.1 Integrated Oilseeds, Oil Palm, Pulses and Maize Development The diverse agro-ecological conditions in the country are favourable for growing nine annual oilseeds which include seven edible oilseeds viz. groundnut, rapeseed mustard, soyabean, sunflower, sesame, safflower and niger and two non-edible oilseeds, castor and linseed. India accounts for 12-15% of World’s oilseeds area and 7-8% of World’s Oilseed output. In India, Oilseeds grown mostly under rainfed conditions, are important for the livelihood of small and marginal farmers in arid and semi arid areas of the country. During the Eleventh Plan, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation restructured a Centrally Sponsored Integrated Scheme of Oilseeds, Pulses, Oilpalm and Maize (ISOPOM). Based on the experience gained in the implementation of ISOPOM, the modifications were made in ISOPOM in 2007-08 in respect of norms and pattern of assistance, inclusion of new components and inclusion of some new agencies as under:- (i) The assistance on Production of Foundation and Certified Seed has been enhanced from Rs. 500/- per qtl to Rs. 1000/- per qtl. Similarly, the subsidy on Distribution of Certified Seed has been enhanced from Rs. 800/- per qtl to Rs. 1200/- per qtl during 11th Plan Period. (ii) The Private Sector seed producing agencies have been involved in the distribution of Certified Seeds of Oilseeds besides NSC, SFCI, NAFED, KRIBHCO and IFFCO. (iii) To transfer the technology, the assistance on block demonstration and Frontline Demonstrations of Polythene Mulch Technology in groundnut has been enhanced/rationalized. (iv) To increase irrigated area under Oilseeds and Maize Production Programmes, the assistance on sprinkler set has been adopted under ISOPOM as approved under National Mission on Micro-irrigation besides rationalization of subsidy on distribution of gypsum/pyrite/liming, cultures and pipes for carrying water during 11th Plan Period. (v) A new component of supply of micro nutrient and improved farm implements have also been included during 11th Plan Period. Under ISOPOM, Oilseeds development programme is being implemented in 14 major States for oilseeds, 15 States for Maize and out of 12 approved States, 9 States are implementing oilpalm programme. The area expansion programme of ISOPOM has been launched under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) as per the announcement made by the Union Finance Minister in Budget Speech 2011-12. Besides RKVY, the support for committed expenditure on oil palm components is being implemented under ISOPOM as well. Against the BE of Rs. 575.00 crores for the year 2012-13, Rs. 341.90 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 661.25 crores. 4.2 Tree Borne Oilseeds and Bio Diesel The countrywide efforts have been made by the Board for promotion of Tree Borne Oilseeds. The various programmes viz. Development of elite planting material and model plantation, awareness programme, Back-ended credit linked subsidy programme etc. are being implemented under the Integrated Development of Tree Borne Oilseeds Scheme for exploitation of existing potential and augmentation of future potential of TBOs. The superior trees having more yield and high oil content have been identified in the country. The seed materials of such plants have been collected and are being provided to various Agricultural Universities and institutions for developing model plantation. Promotional programmes The promotional activities are undertaken with grant-in-aid (100%) through State Departments of Agriculture, Forest, Horticulture, SAUs, ICAR/CSIR Institutions etc. Development of elite planting material of various TBOs from identified superior trees is an ongoing programme for future plantations. The elite material is developed and the plantation of quality seedlings are raised from superior genotypes. The maintenance of these plantations is ensured by providing necessary technical and financial support to the programme implementing agencies for 2 years after plantation. Besides, the quality seed production of various TBOs are also undertaken for raising quality nursery required for mass propagation. Against the BE of Rs. 9.50 crore for the year 2012-13, Rs. 4.35 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 10.93 crores. ***** Chapter 5 NATIONAL MISSION ON SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE (NMSA) National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) derives its mandate from National Action on Climate Change (NAPCC, 2008) and envisages multi-pronged, long term and integrated strategy achieving country’s key developmental goals while negotiating impacts of climate change. Mission Document of NMSA has been approved ‘in principle’ by Prime Minister Council on Climate Change (PMCCC). NMSA strategizes transformation of Indian Agriculture into a sustainable and climate resilient production system by mainstreaming / embedding appropriate climate change adaptation measures onto ongoing and future programmatic / schematic interventions. Accordingly, this restructured Mission of DAC alongwith Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) will address various key dimensions as outlined in NMSA Mission Document, besides catering to diverse needs of Indian Agriculture. NMSA as a programmatic intervention will primarily focus on synergizing resource conservation, improved farm practices and integrated farming from enhancing agricultural productivity especially in rainfed areas. Key deliverables under this Mission will be: (a) Developing Rainfed Agriculture; (b) Natural Resource Management; (c) Enhancing Water Use Efficiency; (d) Improving Soil Health; and (e) Promoting Conservation Agriculture. Towards this, NMSA will subsume components currently under Micro Irrigation (MI), National Project on Management of Soil Health and Fertility (NPMSHF), Rainfed Area Development Programme (RADP) and Macro Management of Agriculture (Soil & Water conservation and Land Reclamation Programmes). Livelihood diversification plays major role in mitigating climatic and non-climatic risks by providing farming communities with supplementary farm income. Accordingly, NMSDA intends to promote crop diversification, progressive adoption of crop-livestock farming systems and integrated approaches like crop-sericulture, agro-forestry, fish farming, etc., especially as watershed plus interventions. 5.1 National Sub-Mission on Micro Irrigation Micro Irrigation – an advanced irrigation technology carrying desired water and nutrients mixture directly to the root zone of the plant, drop by drop or in tiny streams or sprays through a network of plastics pipes and emitters resulting in enhanced water use efficiency, increased productivity and higher return for the farmer. As per recommendation of Task Force on Micro Irrigation constituted by Govt. of India during 2004, “Centrally Sponsored Scheme on Micro Irrigation” was launched in January 2006. The scheme is continuing in mission mode since June 2010 as the “National Mission on Micro Irrigation “(NMMI) with enhanced scope for coverage incorporating revised cost norms as well as inclusion of additional components. Under this Scheme assistance is provided @ 60% of total system cost to small and marginal farmers and @ 50% for general farmers including 10% of State share. In the XI Plan period, an amount of Rs. 3582.16 crore has been released as central share. On the physical achievement side, NMMI has facilitated bringing 28.87 lakh ha against the physical target of 28.00 lakh ha. Against the BE of Rs. 1500.00 crore for the year 2012-13, Rs. 890.66 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 1900.00 crores. 5.2 National Project on Management of Soil & Health Fertility A new scheme “National Project on Management of Soil Health & Fertility” (NPMSHF) has been taken up from 2008-09 to promote balanced and judicious use of fertilizer in conjunction with organic manure on soil test basis. The major activities under the Scheme are:- Strengthening of soil testing service: (i) Setting up/ strengthening of Static/Mobile Soil Testing Laboratories (STLs). (ii) Trainings/ Field demonstrations on balanced use of fertilizers of STL staff/extension officers/farmers. (iii) Preparation of digital district soil maps. Promoting use of Integrated Nutrient Management: Promotion of Organic Manures/Soil Amendments (Lime/basic slag) in acidic soils/micro-nutrients. Strengthening of fertilizer testing services: Setting up/ strengthening of Fertilizer Quality Control Laboratories. Continuation/Strengthening of Central Fertilizer Quality Control & Training Institute / Regional Laboratories: Against the BE of Rs. 30.00 crore for the year 2012-13, Rs. 10.89 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 2470.00 crores. 5.3 National Project on Promotion of Organic Farming “National Project on Organic Farming” was launched as a Central Sector Scheme during 10th Plan on Pilot basis with an outlay of Rs. 57.05 crore. The scheme is continuing in the XIIth Plan with the following main objectives: (i) To facilitate, encourage and promote development of organic agriculture in the country. (ii) To encourage production and use of organic and biological sources of nutrients like biofertilizers, organic manure, compost for sustained soil health and fertility and improving soil organic carbon and to promote production and use of biopesticides, bio-control agents etc. as alternative inputs in organic farming. (iii) To act as nodal agency for implementation of quality control regime for biofertilizers and organic fertilizers, as per the requirement of FCO. (iv) To run short term certificate courses on organic system and on-farm resource management. (v) To initiate research on validation of established indigenous practices, inputs and technologies leading to development of package of practices. (vi) To act as central information and data collection centre on all aspects of organic farming and dissemination of information through print and electronic media. (vii) Awareness creation through seminars/conferences/trade fairs and publicity through print and electronic media. To implement these new objectives approved implementation components of NPOF are as follows: (i) Strengthening and upgradation of NPOF. (ii) Support and encourage production and use of organic inputs for nutrient mobilization and plant protection through Capital Investment Subsidy for setting up of Commercial input Production units of Fruits & Vegetables Waste/agro-waste Compost Production Units and Biofertilizer and/or Biopesticide production Units. (iii) Development and implementation of quality control regime and technical support for organic and biological inputs. (iv) Human resource development through trainings. (v) Encourage and Support Research, studies and/or surveys etc. on organic package of practices, inputs and management protocols. (vi) Publication of Newsletters, Training manuals and literature etc. and collection of data related to organic farming and inputs. (vii) New Initiatives, Market Development, Awareness Creation and Publicity and evaluation. Against the BE of Rs. 21.00 crores for the year 2012-13, Rs. 5.90 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 56.14 crores. 5.4 Soil and Land Use Survey of India The All India Soil & Land Use Survey - renamed as Soil & Land Use Survey of India(SLUSI), was established in the year 1958 as a subordinate office of DAC with seven centers located at Noida, Kolkata, Bangalore, Nagpur, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad and Ranchi. Objectives The Soil & Land Use Survey of India (SLUSI) is aimed to provide necessary data on soil survey and assessment of land resources for preparation and implementation of projects concerning development of degraded lands. The main objectives are: To conduct Rapid Reconnaissance Survey (RRS) of the catchment areas of River Valley Projects and Flood Prone Rivers. To conduct Detailed Soil Survey (DSS) of the ‘Very High’ and ‘High’ priority watersheds to provide data base for scientific land use planning and execution of soil conservation measures. To monitor and evaluate study of watershed development projects using Remote Sensing and GIS. To undertake consultancy projects on Soil Mapping. To organize short training courses on the subjects of soil surveys and use of soil survey data for planning of Watershed Development Programmes for State User Departments. Financing Pattern The organization is being funded under the Central Sector Scheme of Department of Agriculture & Cooperation, Ministry of Agriculture under Plan and Non – Plan as 100% Central Assistance. Hosting of GIS based Web Services Soil & Land Use Survey of India (SLUSI) provides digital database on watershed prioritization, soil & land degradation as per the directives of Planning Commission for digital spatial GIS applications under G2G domain. Accordingly, the DAC (SLUSI) and NIC are developing ICT Infrastructure and creating digital information based on available data. Department has proposed in its proposal of Restructuring & Streamlining Agriculture Development Schemes for XII Plan that components of this scheme can be taken up under proposed National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture if the Mission is approved by Planning Commission. Against the BE of Rs. 16.35 crore for the year 2012-13, Rs. 6.01 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 19.00 crores. Chapter 6 NATIONAL MISSION ON AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION & TECHNOLOGY (NMAET) 6.1 Sub-Mission on Agriculture Extension 6.1.1 Support to States Extension Programmes for Extension Reforms The objective of the Scheme is to make the extension system farmer-driven and farmer-accountable by way of new institutional arrangements for technology dissemination. 588 Agricultural Technology Management Agencies (ATMAs) have been established at district level to operationalize the extension reforms. Additional funds are required for the following activities approved by CCEA: Provision of specialist and functionary support at different levels viz. State Coordinator and faculty and supporting staff for SAMETI at State level, Project Director, Deputy Project Director, and supporting staff at District level and Block Technology Manager and Subject Matter Specialists at the Block level; Innovative support through a ‘Farmer Friend’ at village level @1 Farmer Friend per two villages; Revision in ATMA Cafeteria (i.e. list of extension related activities to choose from) to include some additional activities and to provide for enhanced unit costs for some of the activities; Farmers’ Advisory Committees at State , District and Block levels comprising a group of farmers to advise and provide inputs to the administrative bodies at each level; Against the BE of Rs. 600.00 crore for the year 2012-13, Rs. 373.59 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 730.00 crores. 6.1.2 Mass Media Use in Agricultural Extension Under the scheme, the infrastructure of 96 FM Stations of AIR, 18 Regional Kendra, 180 Narrowcasting centres and 1 National Channel of Doordarshan are being utilized to broadcast area specific agricultural programme for 30 minutes for 5/6 days a week. Programmes of Regional Kendras and a few Narrowcasting Centres are being repeated the next day on respective Regional Satellite Channels. During 2011-12, 18 Regional Kendras and 36 Narrowcasting Production Centres produced about 8684 fresh programmes. Against the BE of Rs. 190.00 crores for the year 2012-13, Rs. 157.04 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 235.00 crores. 6.1.3 Agri-Clinics/Agri-Business Centres This Scheme was launched to provide extension services to farmers on payment basis through setting up of economically viable self-employment ventures by selected trainees who are provided agri-preneurship training for a period of two months by MANAGE. NABARD monitors the credit support to Agri-Clinics through Commercial Banks. Provision of Credit-linked back-ended capital subsidy to the tune of 36% (44% in case of SC/ST/women/NE region/other hill areas) has recently been approved under the scheme. Against the BE of Rs. 20.00 crores for the year 2012-13, Rs. 10.15 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 23.00 crores. 6.1.4 Extension Support to Central Institutes of DOE Directorate of Extension has been restructured to meet current and future challenges, based on SIU study. Support to the Directorate will, therefore, have to be continued during 2013-14 to meet the salary/establishment expenditure. Against the BE of Rs. 18.00 crores for the year 2012-13, Rs. 12.02 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 22.00 crores. 6.2 Sub-Mission on Information Technology 6.2.1 National e-Governance Plan for Agriculture The underlying vision behind this project is to “create an environment conducive for raising farm productivity and income to global levels through provision of relevant information and services to the stakeholders.” The initial phase of the Project has been completed with the identification of prioritised list of services to be implemented. The next phase will provide the detailed strategy, road map and guidelines for implementation of e-Governance in Agriculture at both Central and State levels. The Expenditure Finance Committee has approved the rollout of this scheme in the selected seven states. Against the BE of Rs. 72.00 crores for the year 2012-13, no amount has been released so far. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 102.00 crores. 6.2.2 Strengthening of IT Apparatus in Agriculture & Cooperation (HQ) including Early Warning System To promote e-Governance in Agriculture at the Centre and to provide support to States/UTs for the same, DAC is implementing this scheme with the following components: (i) IT apparatus in DAC Headquarters and its field offices/Directorates Under the DACNET Project, the Directorates/field units have already been provided basic infrastructure. Residual expenditure on networking, software development and training for Field Offices/Directorates will be met from this component of the scheme. (ii) Development of Agricultural Informatics and Communication Software development works such as Kisan Knowledge Management System (KKMS), digitization of Soil Mapping Data, Data-warehousing, RFS and Watershed Development are under development. It is expected that over time, regular data updating and designing of web content will require manpower. It is proposed to partly outsource such activities. (iii) Strengthening of IT Apparatus in Agriculture and Coop. in the States and UTs (AGRISNET) 23 States/UTs have so far availed of assistance under AGRISNET. The scheme needs to be expanded multifold for providing improved services to farmers throughout the country. It is also proposed that more services are covered under AGRISNET. (iv) Kisan Call Centers The Kisan Call Centre (KCC) initiative aims to provide information to the farming community through toll-free telephone lines (Tel. No. 18001801551). The entire country is covered under the scheme. Against the BE of Rs. 25.00 crore for the year 2012-13, Rs. 1.07 crore has been released as on 14.12.2012. For the year 2013-14, the proposed outlay is Rs. 28.00 crores. 6.3 Sub-Mission on Seeds & Planting Material 6.3.1 Development & Strengthening of Infrastructure facilities for Production and Distribution of Quality Seeds The restructured Central Sector Scheme “Development and Strengthening of Infrastructure Facilities for Production and Distribution of Quality Seeds” is under implementation from the year 2005-06 on an all India basis. The objective of the scheme is to develop and strengthen the existing infrastructure for the production and distribution of certified /quality seeds to farmers in time at affordable prices. The details of the components of the scheme are as below (Inter se flexibility is proposed to be maintained as per actual requirement). Assistance for Boosting Seed Production in the Private Sector Under this component, credit linked back-ended capital subsidy is provided at the rate of 25% of the project cost subject to a maximum limit of Rs. 25.00 lakh per unit (revised from Rs.10.00 lakh per unit during 2006-07) on seed infrastructure development. Private Companies, partnership firms, individual entrepreneurs, self-help groups, and seed co-operatives are eligible for subsidy. The assistance is for creation of infrastructure facilities relating to seed cleaning, grading, processing, seed treating, packaging and storage units as well as for seed testing facilities. The National Seed Policy, 2002 provides that incentives will be given to the domestic seed industry to enable it to produce seeds of high-yielding varieties and hybrids at a faster pace to meet the challenges of domestic requirement. This component directly fulfils the Government’s commitments under the Policy. Seed Village Programme To upgrade the quality of farmer-saved seed, which is about 80-85% of the total seed used for crop production programmes, financial assistance is provided under this component for distribution of foundation/certified seed at 50% cost of the seed of crops for production of certified/quality seeds and hybrids only and for training on seed production and technology to the farmers. The seed produced in these seed villages are preserved / stored till the next sowing season by encouraging farmers to make/procure Pusa Bin/Mud bin/Bin made from paper pulp for storing of seed produced on their farms. Transport subsidy on Movement of seeds This component covers North-Eastern States including Sikkim, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Hill Areas of West Bengal. The component provides for (a) 100% reimbursement of difference between rail and road transportation cost is allowed for the movement of seeds produced outside the State and (b) the actual cost, restricted to maximum limit of Rs. 60 per quintal whichever is less for the movement of seed within the State from State capital / district Headquarters to sale outlets / sale counters. Establishment and Maintenance of Seed Bank In order to ensure that seeds are available to the farmers at the time of natural calamities like floods, droughts, etc., a need was felt to establish a Seed Bank to maintain stocks of foundation and certified seeds of different crops/varieties which can be utilized for such contingent requirements. The scheme is being implemented through National Seed Corporation, State Farms Corporation of India and State Seed Corporations since IX Plan. Under this component, crop-wise targets of seeds are fixed for each participating organization for maintenance in the Seed Bank every year. Quality Control Arrangements on Seeds This component deals with arrangement to regulate the quality of seeds under the Seeds Act, 1966, to strengthen quality control organization like State Seed Certification Agencies, State Seed Testing Laboratories, Central Seed Testing Laboratory and Central Seed Committee apart from imparting training to officials engaged in the seed sector and for enforcing the seed law in order to ensure the production and distribution of quality seeds to protect the interest of the farmers. This component also deals with the strengthening of National Seeds Research and Training Centre at Varanasi (UP) This Centre has been notified as Central Seed Testing Laboratory (CSTL) and acts as referral seed testing laboratory as well as a premier training centre on all aspects of seed technology to different stakeholders. Assistance for Creation/Strengthening of Infrastructure Facilities for production and distribution of quality seeds Seed Processing Plants It is proposed that State Seeds Corporations including NSC/SFCI will be provided financial assistance for creating facilities for seed processing plants, machineries for seed cleaning, grading, treating and packing. The States/UTs which do not have any State Seed Corporations but are involved in quality seed production will also be provided financial assistance for the creation of seed infrastructure facilities. Besides, National Seed Corporation and State Farms Corporation of India are undertaking processing of seeds through their seed processing plants (43 + 8 in number) located at various places. It is proposed that the financial assistance be provided to 28 States and N
Posted on: Tue, 11 Mar 2014 16:19:15 +0000
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