Current Affairs - Agriculture

The Mizoram government is exploring the successful cooperative farming model implemented by the Nilgiris Cooperative Sales Society in Tamil Nadu. A team from Mizoram has been sent to study this model, with the aim of replicating its success in Mizoram's agricultural sector. The Nilgiris model is known for providing fair prices to farmers and eliminating the role of middlemen, thereby ensuring better market stability and farmer welfare. This initiative demonstrates Mizoram's commitment to improving the economic conditions of its farmers by adopting proven agricultural practices from other regions.

Thirty-eight farmers from Uttar Pradesh’s Mirzapur, known for their expertise in producing value-added coarse grain products, were invited to join the Independence Day flag hoisting ceremony at Delhi’s Red Fort. This initiative reflects recognition of their contributions and the government’s support for coarse grain-based food items, aiming to promote local products and celebrate national pride through their participation in the event.

The 'AgriSURE' fund aims to boost Agri Start-Ups and rural enterprises by providing financial support through a Category-II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) of Rs 750 crore. This initiative involves contributions from the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, NABARD, and financial institutions, with NABVENTURES managing the fund. The fund is designed to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development within the agriculture sector, promoting economic growth and employment opportunities in rural areas.

The Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming (APCNF) program, spearheaded by the Government of Andhra Pradesh, received the prestigious Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity 2024. This recognition highlights the state's efforts in promoting sustainable agriculture, enhancing food security, and fostering climate resilience among smallholder farmers. The program's innovative approach supports transitioning from conventional to natural farming practices, contributing significantly to ecosystem protection and rural empowerment in Andhra Pradesh.

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) collaborated with the Australian Government to launch the Australia-India Critical Agriculture Skills Pilot Project. This initiative aims to enhance agricultural skills through pilot projects in various Indian states, focusing on 5 critical job roles identified through extensive consultations. The project intends to scale this model to other sectors beyond agriculture, fostering bilateral cooperation in skill development between India and Australia.