Union Cabinet Approves National Pulses Mission to Achieve Self-Sufficiency

Key Highlights

• Approval: Union Cabinet cleared the launch of the National Pulses Mission on 1st October 2025.
• Objective:
  • Achieve self-sufficiency in pulses.
  • Enhance nutritional security.
  • Raise farmer incomes.
• Target: Increase pulses production from 24.2 million tonnes (2024–25) to 35 million tonnes by 2030–31.
• Budget Allocation: ₹ 11,440 crore for 2025–26.

Coverage & Strategy

• Geographic Spread: Special production and expansion programmes in 416 districts.
• Focus Areas:
  • Utilisation of rice fallow areas.
  • Supply of breeder, foundation, and certified seeds.
  • Intercropping systems.
  • Expansion of irrigation facilities.
  • Strengthening market linkages.
  • Provision of technical support.
• Procurement Assurance: 100% MSP procurement of tur, urad, and lentils, ensuring guaranteed returns to farmers.

Significance

• Agro-Climatic Advantage: India cultivates 12 pulse crops across kharif, rabi, and summer seasons.
• Regional Concentration:
  • Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan contribute ~55% of national output.
  • Top 10 states account for over 91% of total production.
• Challenges:
  • Nearly 80% of pulse production is rainfed.
  • Pulses sector sustains over 5 crore farmers and families, crucial for rural livelihoods.

Progress & Context

• Past Decline: Production fell to 16.35 MT in 2015–16, leading to 6 MT of imports.
• Government Interventions:
  • Boosted production by 59.4% to 26.06 MT by 2022–23.
  • Productivity rose by 38%.
  • Import dependence reduced from 29% to 10.4%.

Broader Vision

• The Mission aligns with Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) in pulses, strengthening rural economies and ensuring nutritional security for the nation.