India Targets Pulses Self-Reliance With ₹11,440 Crore, 6-Year Mission

The Union Cabinet has approved the centrally sponsored ‘Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses’ on October 1, 2025, marking a major policy push to strengthen domestic pulse production. The scheme spans from 2025‑26 to 2030‑31 and focuses on boosting cultivation, improving processing infrastructure and reducing import dependence.

With a total financial outlay of ₹11,440 crore, the mission targets long‑term structural reforms in the pulses ecosystem. The Government has outlined phased objectives, including expanded cultivation and enhanced support across States and Union Territories.

Rollout Of Processing Units Under the Mission

A total of 1,000 processing units have been approved under the mission’s post‑harvest infrastructure component. These units are intended to strengthen local value addition and reduce post‑harvest losses.

In the first phase, 528 processing units have been allotted to States and Union Territories. The distribution aims to support regions with significant pulses potential and existing agricultural networks.

Large‑Scale Seed Kit Distribution to Boost Area Expansion

Seed kit distribution forms a major part of the mission to increase pulses coverage in rice fallow and diversifiable areas. A total of 87.5 lakh seed kits are targeted over 6 years as per States’ Annual Action Plans.

During Rabi 2025‑26, 10.36 lakh seed kits were allocated across States to support immediate expansion. The upcoming yearly targets have been set at:

• 2026‑27: 15.00 lakh seed kits
• 2027‑28: 16.25 lakh seed kits
• 2028‑29: 17.50 lakh seed kits
• 2029‑30: 13.75 lakh seed kits
• 2030‑31: 12.50 lakh seed kits

Identification Of Focus Districts for Cluster Development

A cluster‑based strategy has been adopted to improve productivity and market linkage. A total of 489 districts have been identified as focus districts to implement targeted interventions.

These districts cover both traditional and emerging pulses‑growing regions. Authorities may revise the list in response to evolving local conditions and agricultural needs.

Projected Expansion of Pulses Cultivation Area

The mission targets a substantial expansion of pulses area by 2030‑31. The total projected increase is 35 lakh hectares, comprising 24.5 lakh hectares in traditional pulses zones and 10.5 lakh hectares in non‑traditional areas.

This expansion is intended to narrow the supply gap and strengthen domestic availability. States are expected to play a key role in identifying suitable expansion zones.

Read More: US Senators’ Letter on Pulse Tariffs Adds New Strain to India–US Trade Negotiations.

Conclusion

The Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses represents a significant policy initiative to build long‑term self‑sufficiency in India’s pulses sector. It combines processing infrastructure, seed distribution and cluster‑based planning to strengthen production systems.

The identification of 489 focus districts and phased rollout of processing units highlight a structured approach. With clear targets for area expansion and financial support, the mission sets a defined path toward enhancing domestic pulses availability.

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