(a) the details of foodgrains in which the country has achieved self-sufficiency;
(b) whether Government proposes to export these items;
(c) if so, the details thereof; and
(d) the steps taken by the Government to encourage diversification of cropping pattern?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF
STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC
DISTRIBUTION (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)
(a): The production of foodgrains in 2008-09 is 234.47 million tonnes which is all time
record production in the country. The country is self sufficient in foodgrain production
except pulses.
(b) & (c): Government of India has allowed export of basmati rice, very small quantities
of non-Basmati rice and specialized cereals to selected countries.
(d): The Production of Foodgrains is encouraged under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes
such as National Food Security Mission (NFSM), Integrated Cereals Development Programme
(ICDP) under Macro Management, Integrated Scheme of Oilseeds, Pulses,Oilpalm and Maize
(ISOPOM). Besides, horticultural & vegetables crops are encouraged under National
Horticulture Mission and Technology Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture in
North Eastern States and Himalayan States.