Shivraj Singh Chouhan Unveils Pulses Mission and Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana

The Government of India launched two key agricultural initiatives in 2025. These are the Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission and the Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana. Both aim to boost agricultural productivity and farmer welfare. The Union Minister for Agriculture, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has emphasised their timely and effective implementation.

Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana Overview

This scheme targets 100 aspirational districts across India. It integrates 36 sub-schemes from 11 ministries. The goal is to promote agricultural advancement through coordinated efforts. The scheme was approved in July 2025 and launched in October 2025. It will run for six years with an annual budget of ₹24,000 crore. The scheme focuses on improving infrastructure, technology, and farmer income at the grassroots level.

Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission Goals

This mission aims to increase pulse production and productivity. The target is to expand the area under pulses from 275 lakh hectares to 310 lakh hectares by 2030–31. Production is expected to rise from 242 lakh tonnes to 350 lakh tonnes. Productivity goals are set at 1,130 kilograms per hectare. The mission also aims to generate employment opportunities in rural areas. The total budget allocated is ₹11,440 crore over six years.

Implementation Strategy and Coordination

District-level clusters will be formed to implement the pulses mission. States will provide support for cluster formation and management. Shri Chouhan has directed officials to ensure time-bound execution of both schemes. Coordination meetings will be held with ministers from 11 ministries and officials from NITI Aayog. Meetings with state nodal officers are planned to monitor progress. The focus is on ensuring benefits directly reach farmers.

Significance for Indian Agriculture

These initiatives address pulse self-sufficiency, a critical need for India’s food security. Pulses are a major source of protein for the population. Increasing productivity reduces import dependence and stabilises prices. The schemes also promote rural employment and sustainable farming practices. Integrating multiple ministries facilitates holistic development in aspirational districts. This approach aims to transform agricultural landscapes and improve farmer livelihoods.