(a) whether the Government is considering any alternative scheme to replace MSP system and create a revolving fund for FCI to expedite payment for procurement of foodgrains;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the benefits likely to accrue from the said scheme;
(c) whether the Government also proposes to provide funds and other incentives for Research and Development to promote production of foodgrains, pulses and oilseeds; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION ( DR. AKHILESH PRASAD SINGH )
(a): No, Sir.
(b): Does not arise.
(c) & (d): To increase the productivity of foodgrains, various schemes like Integrated Crop Development Programme (ICDP) for rice, wheat and coarse cereals etc. have been implemented which have since been subsumed under Macro Management Programme. For improving the productivity of pulses and oil-seeds, the Integrated Scheme for Oil-seeds, Pulses, Oil palm and Maize (ISOPOM) is being implemented. Under ISOPOM, assistance is provided for purchase of breeder seed, production of foundation seed, production and distribution of certified seed, distribution of minikits, distribution of plant protection chemicals etc.