National Food Security Mission (NFSM), Objectives, Initiatives, Beneficiary
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National Food Security Mission, also known as NFSM is a government initiative launched in 2007. The mission has been renamed National Food Security & Nutrition Mission (NFSNM) during 2024-25. National Food Security Mission focuses on improving farm productivity, ensuring proper resource use, and supporting farmers with financial and technical assistance.
National Food Security Mission (NFSM)
The National Food Security Mission (NFSM) is an important initiative by the Indian government to increase food production. It was launched in 2007 to ensure food security for the growing population. The mission aims to increase the production of pulses, nutri cereals, rice, wheat, and coarse cereals in the country.
With food demand rising, the NFSM plays a key role in maintaining food security. It promotes sustainable agricultural practices and reduces dependency on imports.
| National Food Security Mission (NFSM) | |
| Launch Year | 2007 |
| Renamed | National Food Security & Nutrition Mission (NFSNM) |
| Ministry | Ministry Of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare |
| Objective | To increase the production of rice, wheat, and pulses, ensuring food security in India. |
| Target | Production Increase: Rice (10 million tonnes), Wheat (8 million tonnes), Pulses (2 million tonnes by the end of the Eleventh Plan), Additional target of 25 million tonnes during the Twelfth Plan. |
| Funding | Centrally Sponsored Scheme |
| Thrust Areas of Scheme |
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| Implementation | Currently implemented across 638 districts in India. |
Objectives of National Food Security Mission
The main objectives of the National Food Security Mission (NFSM) are:
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Increase food production: Boost the output of rice, wheat, pulses, and coarse cereals.
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Enhance farm productivity: Provide better seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation support.
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Restore soil fertility: Focus on restoring soil fertility and productivity at individual farm levels to ensure long-term agricultural sustainability
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Sustainability: Promote eco-friendly farming practices to protect natural resources.
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Enhance Farm-Level Economy: Improve farm-level profits and restore farmers' confidence through better technologies and management practices.
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Ensure Food Security: Contribute to national food security by increasing food grain availability.
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Create Employment Opportunities: Generate rural employment opportunities through agricultural interventions.
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What is Food Security? Food security means that all people have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs. It depends on food availability, accessibility, and affordability. |
NFSM Scheme Details
The NFSM operates under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare through the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW). It provides financial and technical support to farmers for increasing food grain production. The mission covers major food crops and is implemented in collaboration with state governments.
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Target Crops: Rice, wheat, pulses, coarse cereals, nutri cereals, and commercial crops.
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National Food Security Mission Beneficiary: Farmers of all categories are eligible for benefits under the scheme.
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Components:
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NFSM-Rice
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NFSM-Wheat
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NFSM-Pulses
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NFSM-Coarse Cereals
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NFSM-NFSM-Nutri-Cereals
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NFSM-Commercial Crops
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Incentives to Farmers: Under NFSNM, farmers receive incentives through States/UTs for:
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Crop production and protection technologies
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Cropping system-based demonstrations
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Production and distribution of certified seeds of newly released varieties/hybrids
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Integrated nutrient and pest management techniques
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Capacity building through training programs during the cropping season.
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Demonstration Incentives:
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Rs. 9,000 for sole crop (excluding coarse cereals) per hectare
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Rs. 15,000 for cropping-system-based demonstration per hectare
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Rs. 6,000 for coarse cereals per hectare
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Seed Distribution: Assistance for seed purchase available for up to 2 hectares per farmer per season.
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Application Process: Farmers can apply through local Rural Agricultural Extension Officers by submitting the necessary documents. They can also register on the e-Krishi Yantra Grant Portal for assistance.
Initiatives Under National Food Security Mission
Several initiatives have been launched under the National Food Security Mission to support farmers and increase food production. Some of the key initiatives are:
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Cluster Demonstrations: Showcase improved farming practices to optimize crop management.
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Seed Production & Distribution: Distribute high-yielding varieties and hybrids to boost output.
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Farm Mechanization: Promote modern machinery and tools to reduce losses and enhance efficiency.
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Nutritional Security: Boost millet production and consumption for better nutrition.
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Training & Capacity Building: Train farmers on IPM, nutrient management, and best practices.
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Water Management: Implement efficient irrigation tools for better water use.
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Soil Health Management: Restore soil fertility with ameliorants and nutrient practices.
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Employment Generation: Create rural jobs through agricultural initiatives.
National Food Security Act
The National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013, is a legal framework that provides food grains at subsidized rates to eligible households. The NFSA aims to eliminate hunger and malnutrition in India.
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Coverage: Nearly 75% of the rural and 50% of the urban population under under Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) initiative and priority households.
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Food Grain Entitlement: Each eligible person gets 5 kg of wheat, rice, or coarse grains per month at subsidized prices.
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Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS): Ensures proper food distribution through ration shops.
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Maternity Benefits: Pregnant women receive nutritional support and financial aid.
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Women Empowerment: The eldest woman in the household is designated as the head for ration card issuance.
The NFSA complements the NFSM by ensuring food reaches the needy sections of society.
In conclusion, the National Food Security Mission is a crucial initiative to ensure food security in India. It supports farmers, increases food production, and reduces dependency on imports. With initiatives like better seed distribution, mechanization support, and irrigation development, the NFSM strengthens India's agricultural sector.
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