How is the Economic Survey Paving the Way for Doubling Farmers' Income?
Synopsis
Discover how the latest Economic Survey sets the stage for doubling farmers' income through innovative programs and reforms. Learn about the strides in achieving self-sufficiency in pulses and oils, which are pivotal for India's agricultural future.
Key Takeaways
Economic Survey 2025-26 emphasizes doubling farmers' income.
National Food Security Mission expands to include various crops.
Self-sufficiency in edible oils aims to reduce import dependency.
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana coverage has significantly increased.
Insurance remains critical for agricultural protection .
Bhopal, Jan 29 (NationPress) The Economic Survey 2025-26, unveiled in Parliament by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, emphasizes the Union government's goal to double farmers' income through a mix of productivity enhancements, policy reforms, and institutional interventions.
The survey illustrates that agriculture remains a critical contributor, accounting for nearly one-fifth of India's national income, and is vital for inclusive growth and food security.
A range of mission-oriented programs have been initiated to meet these targets.
The National Food Security Mission, established in 2007, was rebranded in FY25 as the National Food Security and Nutrition Mission to broaden its focus.
It now encompasses rice, wheat, pulses, coarse cereals, commercial crops, and nutri-cereals, aiming at productivity improvement and area expansion.
Additionally, the National Mission on Edible Oils-Oilseeds and the National Mission on Edible Oils-Oil Palm are in effect to attain self-reliance in oilseed production.
These efforts aspire to reach an output of nearly 70 million tonnes by 2030-31 through advanced varieties, enhanced agricultural practices, private sector involvement, and guaranteed procurement.
The Mission for Atmanirbharta in pulses, approved in October 2025, is another significant initiative aimed at decreasing import dependency and achieving self-sufficiency.
The survey indicates that from 2014-15 to 2024-25, the area cultivated with oilseeds increased by 18%, production surged by 55%, and productivity grew by 31%.
Domestic availability of edible oil has notably increased from 86.30 lakh tonnes in 2015-16 to 121.75 lakh tonnes in 2023-24.
This has lowered the dependence on imported edible oil from 63.2% in 2015-16 to 56.25% in 2023-24, despite escalating demand.
The Union government also introduced the Prime Minister Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, approved in July 2025, targeting 100 aspirational agricultural districts over six years starting FY26.
This scheme is aimed at enhancing productivity, promoting crop diversification, bolstering post-harvest storage, improving irrigation, and increasing access to credit at both the panchayat and block levels.
Insurance support is a fundamental component of farm protection.
The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana has experienced a significant rise in coverage, with 4.19 crore farmers insured in 2024-25, reflecting a 32% increase from 2022-23.
The scheme covered 6.2 crore hectares, a rise of 20% from the previous year, offering essential protection against crop losses due to natural disasters, pests, and adverse weather.
Point of View
The Economic Survey is a pivotal document that not only outlines government strategies but also emphasizes the importance of agriculture for India's economic stability. The initiatives highlighted are crucial for ensuring food security and enhancing farmers' livelihoods, aligning with the nation’s long-term growth objectives.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of the Economic Survey 2025-26?
The primary goal is to double farmers' income through various productivity and policy initiatives.
How does the National Food Security Mission contribute to agriculture?
It focuses on enhancing productivity and expanding the area covered by various crops, including pulses and cereals.
What is the significance of self-sufficiency in edible oils?
Achieving self-sufficiency reduces dependency on imports, stabilizing prices and ensuring food security.
How has the coverage of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana changed?
Coverage has significantly increased, with 4.19 crore farmers insured in 2024-25, marking a 32% rise from the previous year.
What role does insurance play in agricultural protection?
Insurance provides essential coverage against crop losses due to natural disasters, pests, and adverse weather.
