Ministry of Cooperation on sets up National Cooperative Organics Limited (NCOL) and Bharatiya Beej Sahakari Samiti Limited (BBSSL) under Multi-State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) Act, 2002
Bharatiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Limited will help in increasing the production of quality seeds in India through cooperatives thereby reducing the dependence on imported seeds, enhancing agriculture production and provide boost to rural economy. All cooperative societies from the level of primary to apex, are eligible to become its member.
Infrastructure in Farm Sector
Under the umbrella of AIF, all loans extended by lending institutions carry a 3% per annum interest subvention, applicable up to a limit of ₹2 crore. Additionally, eligible borrowers can avail credit guarantee coverage through the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) scheme for loans up to ₹2 crore.
Farmer Welfare Schemes
The government’s commitment to bolstering agriculture and the livelihoods of farmers is evidenced by the comprehensive spectrum of central sector and centrally sponsored schemes it has rolled out. Despite the wide-ranging benefits, the government clarifies that there are no immediate plans to introduce a separate policy for smaller farmers.
National Programme for Dairy Development
The Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) had launched the “National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD)” scheme in February 2014. The scheme has undergone a comprehensive restructure and realignment in July 2021 to drive its implementation from 2021-22 to 2025-26.
Plant Quarantine (Regulation of Import
into India) (Fifth Amendment) Order, 2023
The Amendment Order has inserted several a new categories of plant material that can be imported from Bhutan with additional declarations and special conditions.
Government of India requires Aadhaar for Digital Crop Survey Project
The initiative aims to simplify the process of delivering government benefits and services directly to beneficiaries, eliminating the need for multiple identity documents.
ICAR celebrates 95th Foundation and Technology Day
The Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare acknowledged the historic journey of ICAR and its significant accomplishments over the past 94 years. The Minister highlighted the promotion of new agricultural technologies through various mission programs, supported by the Prime Minister, for the benefit of farmers.
Draft Environment (Utilisation of Crop residue by Thermal Power Plants) Rules,2023
The rules mandate the use of crop residue by thermal power plants in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas. According to the rules, all coal-based thermal power plants operated by power generation utilities will be required to use a minimum of 5% percent blend of pellets or briquettes made from crop residue in conjunction with coal.
Vegetable Oils Grading and Marking (Amendment) Rules, 2023
The rules aim to update and refine the regulations governing the grading and marking of vegetable oils. The new rule stipulates that vegetable oils intended for domestic trade must adhere to restrictions regarding residual levels of metal contaminants, pesticide residues, microbial requirements, crop contaminants, naturally occurring toxic substances, and other food safety requirements.
Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare launches BHARAT under Agri Infra Fund
This month-long campaign aimed at raising funds of Rs 7200 crore for agricultural infrastructure projects was launched via a video conference attended by over 100 banking executives. Banks were advised to conduct a thorough assessment of the impact of the projects created under the scheme at the ground level.
