PM-AASHA Scheme

GS 3 – AGRICULTURE

Context:

The Government of India has extended the Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA) Scheme until 2025-26, aligning with the 15th Finance Commission period.

About PM-AASHA Scheme:

Objective:
PM-AASHA is a comprehensive initiative designed to guarantee fair prices for farmers by strengthening procurement operations and implementing price support measures.

Ministry in Charge:
The scheme falls under the administration of the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare.

Implementation:
It is executed in collaboration with Central Nodal Agencies such as NAFED and NCCF, along with State Governments.

Key Components:

1. Price Support Scheme (PSS):
   • Facilitates the procurement of pulses, oilseeds, and copra at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) through NAFED and NCCF.
   • Covers 25% of total national production, except for Tur, Urad, and Masur, which will have 100% procurement in 2024-25.
2. Price Stabilization Fund (PSF):
   • Maintains buffer stocks of pulses and onions to regulate market prices.
   • Helps prevent hoarding and ensures affordability for consumers.
3. Price Deficit Payment Scheme (PDPS):
   • Provides direct compensation to farmers when market prices fall below MSP.
   • Covers 40% of oilseed production for four months.
4. Market Intervention Scheme (MIS):
   • Offers remunerative prices for perishable horticultural crops.
   • Covers 25% of production, with farmers receiving direct payments instead of physical procurement.

Key Features:

• Procurement at MSP: Guarantees farmers a fair return for their crops.
• Pulses Self-Sufficiency: The government pledges 100% procurement of Tur, Urad, and Masur for the next four years.
• Reduced Import Dependency: Strengthens domestic production, decreasing reliance on pulse imports.
• Direct Farmer Registration: Farmers pre-register to sell directly at designated procurement centers.
• Market Price Stabilization: Minimizes price fluctuations, ensuring stable and affordable prices for consumers.