The Government of India has approved the continuation of the PM-AASHA scheme till 2025-26 during the 15th Finance Commission cycle.

About PM AASHA Scheme

• Launch: The Integrated PM AASHA Scheme was launched in 2018.
• Objective: To ensure remunerative prices for farmers through effective procurement operations and price support mechanisms.
• Nodal Ministry:  Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare 
• It is a Central Sector Scheme implemented through Central Nodal Agencies (NAFED, NCCF) in coordination with State Governments.

Key Components of PM-AASHA

Achievements of PM-AASHA

• Expansion of Procurement Operations: The government has approved the procurement of 100% of Tur, Urad, and Masur in 9 States under PSS for the Kharif 2024-25 season.
  • Procurement Target: 13.22 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT) across multiple states.
• Benefits to Farmers: 12,006 farmers have benefited so far with 0.15 LMT of Tur procured in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Telangana.
  • Direct procurement ensures higher earnings and price security for farmers.
• Market Stability and Import Reduction:
  • Buffer stock prevents market price volatility.
  • Reduced dependency on imports by incentivizing domestic production of pulses. 
  • Ensures affordable prices for consumers while maintaining food security.

New Initiatives Under PM-AASHA (2024-25 Onwards)

• Four-Year Extension of 100% Procurement for Tur, Urad, and Masur with commitment to self-sufficiency in pulses through NAFED and NCCF.
• Increased Coverage for Oilseeds Under PDPS: Farmers receive direct compensation for price deficits.
• Digital Procurement via ePortals: Procurement operations streamlined via eSamridhi (NAFED) and eSamyukti (NCCF).
• Greater Flexibility for States: States can choose PSS or PDPS for oilseeds based on their local agricultural conditions.

Benefits of PM-AASHA

• Fair Pricing for Farmers: Ensures farmers receive remunerative prices above MSP.
• Boosts Rural Economy: Enhances income security and economic stability in farming communities.
• Reduces Dependence on Imports: Incentivizes domestic production of pulses and oilseeds.
• Prevents Market Volatility: Buffer stocks stabilize prices and protect consumers from price shocks.
• Supports Crop Diversification: Encourages farmers to grow pulses and oilseeds, reducing soil and water stress.
• Reduces Storage and Procurement Costs: Use of digital payments and direct price support reduces the burden of physical procurement.