UP pulse production increases by 36% in comparison to 2016-17

Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh witnessed 36% increase in pulses production in 2023-24 compared to 2016-17, rising from 2.394 million metric tonnes to 3.255 million metric tonnes, according to a data released by the state govt on Monday.
To further increase the area under pulse cultivation and enhance yield per hectare, the state govt is providing comprehensive assistance to farmers with support from the central govt, a UP govt spokesperson said.
The govt has also prepared an action plan focusing on tur, urd, and moong to boost production of pulses in the state.
As part of this initiative, 27,200 hectares of crop demonstrations will be conducted under the National Food Security Mission Scheme.
Targets have been set to distribute 31,553 quintals of seeds and produce 27,356 quintals of certified seeds under the Pulses National Food Security Mission Scheme. Fourteen seed hubs have also been established to produce 21,000 quintals of seeds, strengthening the system.
Mini kits of other pulse crops, such as moong and urd, will also be distributed to the farmers.
“The govt has reiterated its commitment to purchasing the pulses from farmers at the MSP and setting the MSP for these crops higher than other crops,” the spokesperson said.
The govt strategy includes developing model pulse villages in the strategically significant Bundelkhand districts, which are renowned for their pulse production. These districts include Banda, Mahoba, Jalaun, Chitrakoot, and Lalitpur. The strategy aims to increase the yield per hectare from 14 to 16 quintals within the stipulated time frame, targeting a total yield of 3 million tonnes. Additionally, approximately 175,000 hectares of pulse crops are planned.
Uttar Pradesh is India's largest producer and consumer of pulses. However, the state currently produces only half of its consumption needs.
Accordingly, the govt plans to provide seeds of improved and high-yielding varieties of traditional pulse crops, with demonstrations by progressive farmers.