Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India
GS II: Structure, organisation and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity
- The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare is a department of the Government of India responsible for formulating and implementing policies and programs related to agriculture and the welfare of farmers in the country.
- It was formed on May 26, 2014, after the bifurcation of the Ministry of Agriculture.
Key functions and responsibilities of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare:
- Agricultural Policy Formulation: The ministry is responsible for formulating agricultural policies and programs to promote sustainable agricultural practices, increase agricultural productivity, and ensure food security in the country.
- Crop Production and Protection: It focuses on enhancing crop production by promoting the adoption of improved agricultural practices, crop diversification, and the development of pest-resistant varieties.
- Irrigation and Water Management: The ministry works to improve irrigation infrastructure and water management practices to ensure adequate water supply for agricultural activities.
- Soil Health and Fertility: It emphasizes soil health management through soil testing and nutrient management practices to enhance soil fertility and crop productivity.
- Agricultural Research and Development: The ministry collaborates with various research institutions, including the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), to support research and development activities in agriculture.
- Agricultural Marketing and Trade: It formulates policies and implements programs to improve agricultural marketing, including setting up agricultural produce markets and promoting agricultural exports.
- Farmer Welfare Schemes: The ministry implements various schemes and initiatives to support farmers, including financial assistance, crop insurance, and other welfare measures.
- Agricultural Education and Extension: It supports agricultural education and extension services to disseminate the latest agricultural technologies and knowledge to farmers.
- Animal Husbandry and Fisheries: The ministry also deals with animal husbandry, dairy development, and fisheries-related activities to promote livestock and fisheries development in the country.
The ministry plays a crucial role in addressing the challenges faced by the agricultural sector and ensuring the overall welfare of farmers. It collaborates with various state governments, agricultural research institutions, and other stakeholders to achieve its objectives and goals in the agricultural sector.
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