National Food Security Mission: Benefits and Application Process

The ‘National Food Security Mission’ is one of the central government’s initiatives aimed at increasing the productivity of rice, wheat, and pulses, ensuring year-round food security for the population. This mission guarantees the production, accessibility, utilization, and availability of food resources at fair prices. It promotes agricultural growth while enhancing farmers’ income, making it a significant step toward food security.

Main Objective of the National Food Security Mission

The primary goal of the National Food Security Mission is to increase food grain production and ensure food security across the country. Initially, the mission focused on three major crops—rice, wheat, and pulses. Farmers across various states and regions receive assistance to enhance the production of these crops.

With a growing population, the demand for food grains is also increasing rapidly. The mission aims to balance demand and supply while promoting advanced agricultural techniques to strengthen farmers’ economic conditions and improve crop yields. Another key objective is to ensure a safe and sufficient food supply to every corner of the country.

Main Components of the National Food Security Mission

• National Food Security Mission for Rice
• National Food Security Mission for Wheat
• National Food Security Mission for Pulses
• It also includes coarse grains and commercial crops.

Importance of the National Food Security Mission

• Increase in Food Production: The mission plays a crucial role in enhancing the country’s food production capacity by utilizing modern techniques, high-quality seeds, and agricultural science support.
• Improvement in Farmers’ Conditions: By providing training, advanced technology, and financial support, the mission helps improve farmers’ productivity and income.
• Ensuring Food Security: This mission strengthens the country’s food security by ensuring a stable supply of food grains at affordable prices.
• Reducing Poverty: Ensuring adequate food for every citizen through this mission also helps lower poverty levels.

Benefits of the National Food Security Mission

• Increase in Production: Modern techniques and advanced agricultural tools have significantly increased rice, wheat, and pulse production.
• Increase in Farmers’ Income: Farmers benefit from subsidies and financial aid under the mission, resulting in increased income.
• Stability in Food Supply: The mission plays an important role in maintaining a stable food supply at fair prices, providing nutritious food for the general population.
• Employment Opportunities: The mission also creates employment opportunities through new agricultural technologies and projects.
• Social Security: The mission ensures food security in both rural and urban areas, benefiting the weaker sections of society.

Terms and Conditions for the National Food Security Mission

• Availability of Agricultural Land: Only farmers with available agricultural land are eligible for benefits under this mission.
• Crop Selection: Farmers are given the opportunity to grow rice, wheat, and pulses under the mission.
• Compliance with Guidelines: Farmers must use the technology, training, and fertilizers provided under the mission and follow the sowing and crop care instructions as outlined.
• Use of Approved Agricultural Methods: Priority is given to farmers who use approved and sustainable agricultural practices.

Important Documents Required

• Aadhar Card
• Land Ownership Documents
• Bank Passbook
• Passport Size Photos
• Mobile Number

Application Process for the National Food Security Mission

• To take advantage of this mission, farmers can apply through offline channels by visiting the nearest agricultural office for registration.
• After registration, farmers will receive an application form, which they need to fill out with their land, crop, and personal details.
• Submission of necessary documents is also required along with the application.

Have you benefited from the National Food Security Mission? Share your experience and agriculture-related questions with us in the comments section. If you found today’s post useful, like it and share it with your farmer friends. Also, follow the 'Farmer’s Scheme' channel for more information on government schemes for farmers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: When was the National Food Security Mission launched?
A: The National Food Security Mission (NFSM) was launched in August 2007 to increase crop productivity and ensure affordable availability across 29 states and 638 districts.

Q: What is the main objective of food security?
A: The main objective of food security is to ensure that all people at all times have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food, including both availability and affordability, to eradicate hunger and malnutrition.

Q: Who is eligible for national food security?
A: Under India’s National Food Security Act (NFSA), priority households and eligible families identified by state governments as needing assistance qualify for food security benefits based on criteria like income and family size.