Amit Shah Launches Tur Dal Procurement Portal for Farmers

In a significant move towards agricultural reform, Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah inaugurated a tur dal procurement portal, enabling farmers to register and sell their produce to the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (NAFED) and the National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India Limited (NCCF). The portal guarantees a minimum support price (MSP) or market price for the farmers. Minister Shah, during the launch, also highlighted plans to extend this facility for urad, masoor, and maize farmers in the future.

Direct Benefit Transfer and Farmer Empowerment

As part of the inauguration, Minister Shah conducted Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), transferring approximately Rs 68 lakh to 25 farmers as payment for their tur dal sales through the portal. This move is expected to empower farmers by providing them with assured prices and promoting pulses farming, addressing concerns of price uncertainty.

Initiative Towards Self-Reliance in Pulses Production

Aiming for self-reliance in pulses production, Minister Shah emphasized that the portal’s procurement process will contribute to a significant reform in the agriculture sector. He expressed confidence that by December 2027, the country will achieve self-sufficiency in pulses, eliminating the need for imports by January 2028.

Encouraging Farmer Participation

Shah called upon Primary Agriculture Credit Societies (PACS), Farmer Producers Organisations (FPOs), and progressive farmers to create awareness about the portal. Farmers registering on the portal will have the option to sell to NAFED/NCCF or the open market, ensuring flexibility based on market dynamics. The initiative aims to boost domestic pulses production, bridging the gap between consumption and production in the country.

Important Questions Related to Exams

1. What is the primary purpose of the tur dal procurement portal launched by Amit Shah?

2. How does the portal provide flexibility for tur farmers in choosing buyers, and what role does Direct Benefit Transfer play in the process?
3. According to Amit Shah, what challenges in the agriculture sector does the portal address, and what guarantees were provided for tur dal procurement?

4. What ambitious target did Minister Shah set for India in terms of self-sufficiency in pulses, and what role is expected from Agricultural Credit Societies and Farmer Producers Organisations?

Please provide your answers in the comment section!!