IARI-Pusa’s Initiative: Doubling Farmers’ Income in 2024

Exciting news for farmers! Imagine being told that your crop could fetch one and a half times more than the Minimum Support Price (MSP). Sounds unbelievable, right? But it’s true. Thanks to the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI-Pusa), thousands of farmers are earning more than the MSP for their crops.

IARI’s Role in Boosting Farmers’ Income

Dr. Gyanendra Singh, Principal Scientist and in charge of the Seed Production Unit at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, explains how IARI is enhancing farmers’ yield and income. The institute is producing high-quality seeds in farmers’ fields due to limited land availability. This initiative is boosting both the income and yield of farmers. Studies have shown that improved seeds can enhance yield by 30 to 40 per cent.

The Process to Earn More than MSP

The process begins with scientists identifying the best crop species and areas for seed production. After this, they contact the local farmers. The farmer bears the cost of seed production, but they receive guidance from IARI scientists. Farmers within 100-120 km of the IARI centre are selected to minimize transportation costs. Multiple farmers can collaborate on seed production to further reduce costs.

Payment for the Crop

Once the crop is ready, the farmer takes it to the IARI centre and receives payment based on the MSP. Scientists then check the crop, and about 8 per cent of the goods, on average, need to meet the quality standards. These are sold separately. Since IARI prepares the crop as seeds, there’s a significant price difference between the crop and seed price according to the MSP. IARI pays this difference to the farmer, ensuring they earn more than one and a half times the cost.

Easy Access to Agricultural Information

In the digital age, farmers can access crucial agricultural information right from their homes. One such resource is the seed production unit of Pusa Delhi, which farmers can contact directly by dialling 011-25842686. Additionally, farmers nationwide can reach out to the Science Center (KVK) and Agriculture Technical Information Center (ATK) for more information.

Contact Information for Farmers in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh

Farmers residing near Delhi can directly contact the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) seed unit in Delhi. For those in Uttar Pradesh, information can be obtained by visiting various locations, including Varanasi, Meerut, Modipuram, Mau, Izzatnagar, Lucknow, Jhansi, and Kanpur.

Resources for Farmers in Other States

Farmers in other states such as Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Uttarakhand also have local resources available. They can visit locations like Bhopal, Karnal, Hisar, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Patna, Raipur, Ranchi, Dehradun, and Almora for assistance.

Nationwide Helplines for Farmers

For farmers across India, the Kisan Farmer Whatsapp Helpline (9560297502), Pusa Helpline (011-25841670 / 25841039, 25842686), and Pusa Agricom toll-free number (1800-11-8989) are available. Online inquiries can be submitted at the IARI website.