How can India enhance its production of pulses to meet nutritional requirements
Global experts have urged India to augment its production of pulses to address nutritional deficiencies. This would require focused efforts and strategies.
- Investing in research and development: India should allocate funds towards research and development in order to develop high-yielding pulse varieties that are more resistant to diseases and pests, ensuring increased production.
- Promoting advanced agricultural technologies: Adoption of modern farming techniques such as precision agriculture, drip irrigation, and use of organic fertilizers can enhance the productivity of pulse crops.
- Providing subsidized inputs: The government can provide subsidies on seeds, fertilizers, and machinery used in pulse cultivation to encourage farmers to expand their production.
- Offering financial incentives: Governments can provide financial incentives like subsidies, loans, and insurance schemes to support farmers and reduce the financial risk associated with pulse cultivation.
- Improving storage and infrastructure facilities: Building adequate storage facilities and enhancing transportation infrastructure would help reduce post-harvest losses, ensuring a steady supply of pulses in the market.
- Facilitating farmer training and extension services: Providing farmers with training programs and extension services on modern agricultural practices, efficient water usage, and pest management can increase their knowledge and skills in pulse cultivation.
- Promoting crop diversification: Encouraging farmers to diversify their crops by incorporating pulses into their crop rotation can help increase pulse production and address nutritional deficiencies.
- Creating market linkages: Strengthening market linkages between farmers and consumers, including establishing direct procurement centers and establishing fair price mechanisms, can motivate farmers to enhance pulse production.
- Educating consumers: Initiatives to raise awareness among consumers about the nutritional benefits of pulses and their inclusion in diets can help drive demand and create a sustainable market for pulses.
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a year ago