The Indian government has approved the continuation of the integrated Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay SanraksHan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA) Scheme until 2025-26, during the 15th Finance Commission Cycle. PM-AASHA comprises the Price Support Scheme (PSS), Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS), Market Intervention Scheme (MIS), and Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF).
The Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare (DA&FW) administers PSS, PDPS, and MIS, while the Department of Consumer Affairs manages the PSF. The integrated scheme aims to improve procurement operations, ensuring remunerative prices for farmers and controlling price volatility of essential commodities for consumers.
Price Support Scheme (PSS) Procurements
Under the PSS, Central Nodal Agencies (CNAs) procure notified pulses, oilseeds, and copra that meet Fair Average Quality (FAQ) standards directly from pre-registered farmers through state-level agencies at the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
Soyabean Procurement: For Kharif 2024-25, the government approved soyabean procurement under PSS in Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Telangana. As of February 9, 2025, 19.99 LMT of soyabean has been procured, benefiting 846,251 farmers. Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan has approved a 24-day extension of the procurement period in Maharashtra and a 15-day extension in Telangana, beyond the standard 90 days, to further support farmers.
Groundnut Procurement: Groundnut procurement under PSS was approved for Kharif 2024-25 in Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. As of February 9, 2025, 15.73 LMT of groundnut has been procured, benefiting 475,183 farmers. Minister Chouhan has also approved a 6-day extension for groundnut procurement in Gujarat and a 25-day extension in Karnataka, beyond the usual 90 days.
Incentivizing Pulses Production
To boost domestic pulses production and reduce import dependence, the government has allowed the procurement of Tur, Urad, and Masur under PSS, equivalent to 100% of each state’s production for the 2024-25 procurement year. This initiative will continue for another four years, as announced in Budget 2025, to achieve self-sufficiency in pulses. The government will use Central Nodal Agencies for these procurements.
Key Takeaways
The extension of the PM-AASHA scheme and the ongoing procurements of soyabean and groundnut demonstrate the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and ensuring market stability. The focus on pulses procurement highlights the drive towards self-sufficiency in this important food category. The extended procurement periods in specific states show a responsive approach to local needs and conditions.
