On the third day of detailing the mega Rs 20 lakh crore economic package, under the Centre's Self-Reliant India Movement or Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan which was earlier announced by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced eight measures and three reforms for the agriculture sector and allied activities such as fisheries, beekeeping, animal husbandry and milk production.
To Strengthen Agriculture Infrastructure:
Sitharaman announced setting up a Rs 1 lakh crore fund to boost agricultural infrastructure in the country. "In a move to strengthen infrastructure in agriculture, financing facility of Rs. 1 lakh crore will be provided for funding Agriculture Infrastructure Projects at farm-gate and aggregation points like cold chains and storage," Sitharaman said.
For Micro Food Enterprises:
Nirmala Sitharaman announced a scheme worth Rs 10,000 crore for Micro Food Enterprises. The scheme will be launched to help almost 2 lakh micro food enterprises undertake technical up-gradation, meet good food standards, build brands and market their produce. "The scheme promotes PM Narendra Modi's vision of 'Vocal for Local' with global outreach," she said.
Rs 20,000 Crore For Fishermen:
Sitharaman further announced Rs 20,000 crore under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana for integrated, sustainable, inclusive development of marine and inland fisheries to plug critical gaps in the fisheries value chain. "This will provide employment to over 55 lakh persons and double exports to Rs 1 lakh crore," the Finance Minister said.
Setting Up of Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund and National Animal Disease Control Programme:
To support private investment in dairy processing, value addition and cattle feed infrastructure, Sitharaman announced setting up Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund worth Rs. 15,000 crore. She also said the National Animal Disease Control Programme has been launched with a total outlay of Rs. 13,343 crores for 100 percent vaccination of cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat and pig population in India.
