MEDIATION UNDER NATIONAL FOOD SECURITY MISSION

12-08-2023

Latest Context

Recently, during a written reply in the Lok Sabha, the Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare provided valuable insights into the developments under the National Food Security Mission.

National Food Security Mission

Concept: It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme launched in 2007 on the recommendations of the agriculture sub-committee of the National Development Council (NDC). It highlighted the need for improved agricultural extension services, technology transfer and decentralized planning as a result of which NFSM was conceptualized as a mission-mode program.
Thrust Areas

Sustainable increase in the production of targeted crops such as rice, wheat, and pulses primarily and then extended to coarse cereals, nutri-cereals, and oilseeds as well.
Restoration of soil fertility and productivity at the individual farm level.
Rise in farm-level net income.

Major Interventions Under the National Food Security Mission

Concentrated Approach to Oilseeds Production: In order to increase oilseed production and acquire self-sufficiency in edible oil, the NFSM-Oilseeds initiative is designed. It contains:

Seed Subsidies and Distribution: Subsidies and financial incentives catalyze the purchase and distribution of quality seeds for ensuring better crop yields.
Demonstrations and Training: For showcasing effective oilseed cultivation practices, block demonstrations, front-line demonstrations, and cluster front-line demonstrations serve as platforms.
Infrastructure and Input Distribution: Provision of necessary resources such as plant protection equipment, soil enhancers, micro-nutrients, water-carrying devices, and bio-agents fortifies oilseed cultivation.

Cluster Demonstrations and Improved Practices: To conduct cluster demonstrations that showcase improved packages of agricultural practices, assistance is extended to farmers through States/Union Territories. These demonstrations pointed out techniques for optimized crop cultivation and management.
Seed Production and Distribution: To enhance the quality and quantity of agricultural output, high-yielding varieties and hybrids are developed, produced, and distributed to farmers.
Farm Mechanization and Resource Conservation: The implementation of modern and efficient farm machinery and resource conservation tools fosters enhanced agricultural practices while optimizing resource utilization. Investments in processing and post-harvest equipment increase the overall value chain and reduce post-harvest losses.
Plant Protection and Nutrient Management: Measures to safeguard crops against pests and diseases, coupled with effective nutrient management and soil amelioration strategies, contribute to healthy plant growth.

Water Management for Sustainable Agriculture:

Per Drop More Crop (PDMC): It was launched in 2015-16 with a focus on water use efficiency through micro-irrigation systems such as drip and sprinkler irrigation. In addition, it also has a focus on the adoption of location-specific scientific techniques and modern agronomic practices.
Command Area Development & Water Management (CADWM): It is part of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana. Its objective is to increase irrigation efficiency. It comprises the construction of lined field channels and underground pipelines for last-mile connectivity.
Bureau of Water Use Efficiency (BWUE): It was set up to control the efficient water use in various sectors, it encourages strategies for improving the water use efficiency in irrigation, industries, and domestic settings.
National Water Mission (NWM): In 2019, MWM launched the 'Sahi Fasal' campaign, which encourages farmers in water-stressed regions in order to cultivate crops that are economically viable, water-efficient, and aligned with agro-climatic conditions.

Major Problems Connected to Food Security in India

Land Fragmentation: Subdivision of land which is the result of inheritance laws that led to small and fragmented land holdings. It creates problems in the adoption of modern farming techniques and technologies that could increase productivity.
Lack of Diversification: Excessive reliance on a few staple crops restricts dietary diversity. A diverse diet is highly needed for proper nutrition, and the emphasis on a few crops like rice and wheat can contribute to malnutrition.
Agricultural Challenges: India's agricultural sector is vulnerable to many challenges like unpredictable weather patterns because of pest infestations, climate change, and soil degradation. These factors can lead to decreased crop yields and contribute to food scarcity.
Rising Food Prices: Fluctuations in global and domestic food prices can make essential food items unaffordable for vulnerable populations. Supply chain disruption causes price volatility that can lead to sudden spikes in food insecurity.

Way Forward

Agro-Ecological Zoning Maps: Developing detailed agroecological zoning maps using advanced geospatial analysis will help in identifying the most suitable crops for specific regions based on their natural characteristics which in turn will optimize resource use and reduce the risk of crop failure.
Edible Landscaping in Urban Areas: Encouraging urban residents in order to convert their lawns and unused spaces into edible landscapes, growing fruits and vegetables. It will contribute to local food production and enhances community involvement.
Nutrient Recovery from Wastewater: Need to implement systems for extracting nutrients from wastewater and organic waste, then convert these nutrients into fertilizers. It will lower the need for synthetic fertilizers and tackles water pollution simultaneously.
Artificial Intelligence Pest Detection: Developing AI-powered cameras and sensors that can detect pest and disease outbreaks early by analyzing subtle changes in plant health which will allow for targeted interventions and reduce the need for widespread pesticide use.
Integrated Energy Farming: Need to combine agriculture with renewable energy production. Solar panels can be placed above crops that will provide shade and reduce water evaporation while generating clean energy to power agricultural equipment.