New Delhi, November 8 (IANS). The Government of India believes that the North-Eastern states should focus on increasing the production of pulses and horticultural crops. This will increase national availability and reduce dependence on imports. The central government says that along with reducing dependence on imports, prices of essential commodities can be controlled by increasing production. This will have a major impact on overall food inflation and the economy.
Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, during a one-day round table consultation on Friday, urged these states to increase the production of pulses and horticulture crops.
The Secretary said that the role of North Eastern states is important in achieving self-sufficiency in pulses production by 2027. He informed that the consignment of 840 metric tonnes of onion reached Changsari station in Guwahati on November 5 by rail rake. Onion is being distributed by NCCF in various districts of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and other North Eastern states. This will ensure wide availability of onion in the north-eastern states and bring down prices. Bulk transportation of onion has been adopted for the first time this year from Nashik to major destinations like Delhi, Chennai and Guwahati for more cost effective and efficient disposal. Bulk disposal of onion in major mandis has helped in increasing availability and reducing prices.
A workshop on pulses and horticulture was organized by the Central Government on Friday for the North-Eastern states. The event was organized by the Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India in collaboration with NCCF to consider the issues related to production and food price management of pulses and horticultural commodities in the North Eastern States. The Union Secretary explained the importance of an integrated and inclusive approach of the States, the support that can be provided by the Department and the role of NCCF in supporting the cause of pulses and horticulture through contract farming initiatives.
Here the availability of pulse varieties suitable for North Eastern states and pulse seed centers in the region were highlighted. These seed centers can be helpful in promoting pulses production in the states. The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has initiated Seed Mini Kit to provide quality seeds to the farmers.
–IANS
GCB/ABM
