Question : PRODUCTION OF PULSES



(a) whether the indigenous production of pulses has fallen in the past few years;

(b) if so, the factors responsible for fall in production of pulses in the country;and

(c) the steps taken by the Government to encourage production of pulses in the country and avoid their imports?

Answer given by the minister


MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE(SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA)

(a): No,Sir.The indigenous production of pulses was 13.39 million tones during 2005-06 which rose to 14.20 million tones during 2006-07 and further to 15.11 million tones during 2007-08 (4th Advance Estimates).

(b): Does not arise.

(c): To increase the production of pulses, a centrally sponsored `Integrated Scheme on Oilseeds, Pulses,Oilpalm and Maize` (ISOPOM) is under implementation with effect from 01.04.2004 in 14 major pulses growing States in the country. Under the scheme, financial assistance is provided for purchase of breeder seeds, production of foundation seed, distribution of seed minikits, infrastructure development, block demonstrations on improved technology,integrated pest management,weedicides,distribution of sprinkler sets and farmers` training for increasing production and productivity of pulses.

Further,National Food Security Mission (NFSM) has been launched in the country from Rabi 2007-08 which,inter-alia,aims to increase the production of pulses by 2 million tones by the end of the 11th Plan, i.e. by 2011-12 through productivity enhancement and bringing an additional area of 4.47 million hectares under pulses cultivation through intercropping and utilization of rice follows.