Why in news
- The Union Government announced a ₹7,200 crore budget allocation for PM-AASHA for FY 2026–27 to reinforce MSP operations and mitigate distress sales.
Information
- Launched in September 2018, Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan serves as an umbrella framework designed to guarantee remunerative prices to farmers while maintaining price stability for consumers.
- The scheme unifies physical procurement of pulses, oilseeds, and copra through central nodal agencies like NAFED and NCCF in coordination with state governments.
- Digital reforms such as Aadhaar-enabled authentication, e-NAM, e-Samriddhi, and e-Samyukti have been integrated into the procurement process to enhance transparency and reduce leakages.
- Infrastructure backing is complemented by financing from the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund to strengthen post-harvest handling and pre-season logistics.
Key terms
PM-AASHA
An umbrella scheme launched in 2018 to ensure remunerative prices for agricultural produce through targeted price support mechanisms.
e-Samriddhi
A digital portal designed to facilitate direct registration, procurement tracking, and seamless financial transfers for farmers selling pulses and oilseeds.
Prelims facts
- PM-AASHA covers procurement for pulses, oilseeds, and copra using central agencies like NAFED.
- Digital authentication on e-NAM and e-Samriddhi is mandatory for direct benefit transfers under the scheme.
Mains discussion
- Analyze how PM-AASHA balances consumer price stability with fair remuneration for small and marginal farmers.
Source: PIB English