NAAS Proposes Budget Measures for Farmers' Prosperity and Self-Sufficiency

The National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS), an independent think-tank, convened a budget discussion to propose key areas for inclusion in the upcoming union budget for 2024-25. The theme of the discussion, "Agriculture for Farmers’ Prosperity and Aatmanirbhar Bharat," underscored the crucial role of agriculture in enhancing farmers' livelihoods and achieving self-reliance. The consultation was attended by a large number of fellows of the Academy. The following areas were identified for inclusion in the upcoming budget:

Boosting Oilseed, Pulse, and Fodder Production
NAAS emphasized the need to prioritize the production of oilseeds, pulses, and fodder to reduce the import bill and stabilize prices. They proposed a mission-mode program encompassing varietal development, seed hubs, and procurement. An additional Rs 1500 crores is recommended for developing high-yielding varieties, establishing seed villages, and creating seed banks.

Krishi Infrastructure Mission
NAAS proposed establishing a fund of Rs 5000 crores under the Krishi Infrastructure Mission (BJP manifesto) to develop infrastructure for promoting a circular bio-economy in agriculture (waste-to-wealth in agriculture). This will generate farm income, reduce waste, and create substantial employment opportunities in rural areas. To steer the program effectively, it is also proposed to establish a ‘Centre of Excellence on Circular Bioeconomy in Agriculture.’

Carbon Mission
A new 'Carbon Mission' is suggested to enhance resilience against natural and anthropogenic stresses, improve agricultural input productivity, and combat climate change. This mission would integrate with existing schemes like Smart City, Swachh Bharat, and Bhoochetana.

Animal Husbandry Development
Recognizing the potential of the animal husbandry sector, NAAS proposed strengthening 100 semen stations to improve cattle and buffalo fertility. A special scheme to conserve indigenous animal genetic resources, with a budget of Rs 1000 crores, is recommended.

PM Pashu Arogya 
To enhance animal health and eradicate major veterinary diseases, NAAS suggested launching the PM Pashu Arogya Scheme. An allocation of Rs 2000 crores is proposed for modernizing veterinary hospitals and promoting a ‘one world - one health’ approach.

Aquaculture Advancement
NAAS recommended boosting the aquaculture sector by developing markets and processing facilities. Proposals include creating 100 Special Aquaculture Zones and 1000 Model Hygienic Fish Markets. Four sub-missions under the Matsya Sampada Yojana are also suggested to advance aquaculture.

Promotion of Organic and Biofertilizers
To reduce chemical fertilizer imports and enhance soil health, NAAS proposed a mission-mode program for the production and use of quality organic matter, biofertilizers, and nano-fertilizers. A 0% GST for five years on these products is recommended.

Biofortification for Nutritional Security
NAAS emphasized the importance of biofortification to improve the nutritional security of marginalized populations. A special scheme with a budget of Rs 1000 crores is proposed for producing biofortified seeds and conducting farmer demonstrations. 

Agro-based Entrepreneurship Services for Rural Youths
A new scheme may be launched on ‘Agro-based Entrepreneurship Services for Rural Youths”. For this, KVKs need to be upgraded, making them one-stop knowledge and skill development hubs to meet future challenges. Therefore, a higher allocation of funds to KVKs would be required for establishing “agri-clinics” and “incubation centres”. These will attract youth from rural areas for processing and value addition of agricultural commodities. These activities will generate employment opportunities and develop agri-entrepreneurship.

Enhanced Agricultural Research
The Academy emphasizes the need for increased public funding for agricultural research, particularly considering emerging challenges like climate change and resource scarcity. They propose allocating at least 1% of Agricultural GDP for research, along with a one-time grant of Rs 5000 crore to modernize agricultural universities and research institutions. Additionally, leveraging new technologies like Genome Editing, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning is encouraged to attract private-sector investment in agricultural research and innovation.