The EPS-95 NAC members have been protesting to press for their demand of Rs 7,500 as a monthly pension instead of an average monthly pension of only Rs 1,450 at present.

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The Union Budget 2024-25, which resonates with the spirit of ‘Viksit Bharat,’ emphasizes inclusive growth with a focus on Mahilayen, Garib, Yuva, and Annadata. This budget is significantly influenced by the impact of the Lok Sabha elections, which re-elected PM Narendra Modi for a historic third term. The election message for the BJP is writ large on the first budget of Modi 3.0: that their parliamentary seats have decreased, and there are upcoming assembly elections in three states. Setting a robust roadmap for India’s development, the budget, tabled by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharama, outlines nine critical priorities, each designed to augment growth, inclusivity, and resilience.

By leveraging these opportunities, Public Relations (PR) professionals can play a vital role in amplifying the impact of the government’s initiatives, benefiting all stakeholders, including Sarkar and Aaam Aadami. PR experts and communication strategists can shape public perception of the budget agenda, the blueprints of ministries, and their initiatives. To effectively disseminate messages, government entities can harness the power of events and publicity.

Here, are nine priorities outlined in the budget and the myriad ways in which PR can amplify their implementation and extend their reach.

1. Productivity and Resilience in Agriculture

Opportunities:

· Allocation of ₹1.52 lakh crore to agriculture and allied sectors.

· Introduction of 109 new high-yielding and climate-resilient varieties across 32 field and horticulture crops.

· Enrollment of 1 crore farmers into natural farming practices, with certification and branding within the next 2 years.

· Establishment of 10,000 need-based bio-input resource centers for natural farming.

· Implementation of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) to cover farmers and their lands within 3 years.

Analysis: PR campaigns can effectively spotlight the advantages of digital crop surveys and farmer registries by sharing success stories of farmers who have embraced these innovations. By creating educational content and targeted communications, PR agencies can enhance farmers’ understanding of DPI’s benefits, building trust and encouraging adoption. Hosting workshops and webinars can further facilitate the transfer of knowledge, enabling farmers to implement new practices efficiently.

2. Employment and Skilling

Opportunities:

Implementation of three schemes under the Prime Minister’s package for ‘Employment Linked Incentives’:

· Scheme A: First Timers – providing wage support to new employees.

· Scheme B: Job Creation in Manufacturing – offering incentives to create new jobs.

· Scheme C: Support to Employers – financial assistance to employers for additional hires.

· Establishment of working women hostels and crèches in collaboration with industries.

· Organization of women-specific skilling programs and promotion of market access for women SHG enterprises.

· Introduction of a new centrally sponsored skilling scheme under the Prime Minister’s Package to benefit 20 lakh youth over the next 5 years.

· Revision of the Model Skill Loan Scheme to offer loans up to ₹7.5 lakh.

· Provision of financial support for loans up to ₹10 lakh for higher education in domestic institutions for youth who have not previously benefited from government schemes.

Analysis: PR campaigns can effectively highlight the advantages of these employment and skilling schemes by showcasing success stories of first-time employees and employers who have benefited from these initiatives. Emphasizing the impact of direct benefit transfers and additional job opportunities can drive greater participation. Leveraging social media and forging partnerships with educational institutions can amplify these messages, ensuring they reach and resonate with the target audience. Additionally, campaigns can focus on the positive outcomes of the women-specific programs and support for higher education, reinforcing the government’s commitment to inclusive growth.

3. Inclusive Human Resource Development and Social Justice

Opportunity: The government’s focus on all-round development and social justice creates numerous PR opportunities to promote inclusivity.

· Purvodaya: Development initiatives aimed at Eastern India.

· Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act: Addressing the unique needs of the newly reorganized state.

· Women-led Development: Programs to empower women across various sectors.

· Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan: Enhancing the quality of life in tribal areas.

· Expansion of Bank Branches in the North-Eastern Region: Increasing financial inclusion.

Analysis: PR agencies play a crucial role in highlighting the government’s dedication to supporting marginalized communities through these initiatives. Campaigns can spotlight the transformative effects of schemes such as PM Vishwakarma, PM SVANidhi, and Stand-Up India, fostering empowerment and engagement among beneficiaries. By partnering with NGOs and community organizations, PR agencies can amplify these messages, ensuring they effectively reach and resonate with the target audience. This strategic approach not only raises awareness but also enhances the overall impact of these development programs, driving positive change and fostering a sense of inclusion and support among diverse communities.

4. Manufacturing and Services

Opportunity: Special attention to MSMEs and labour-intensive manufacturing highlights the budget’s focus on industrial growth. The comprehensive package for MSMEs, including financing, regulatory changes, and technology support, aims to boost their global competitiveness. Schemes like the Credit Guarantee Scheme and Mudra Loans are designed to facilitate easier access to credit for MSMEs, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation. This focus on manufacturing is expected to drive job creation and economic diversification.

It presents a significant opportunity for PR professionals.

Analysis: PR campaigns can showcase the government’s initiatives to support MSMEs through financial packages, regulatory changes, and technology support. Highlighting stories of MSMEs that have successfully leveraged these initiatives can inspire other businesses to follow suit. PR agencies can also create content that educates MSMEs about the available support, helping them navigate the complexities of accessing these benefits.

5. Urban Development

Opportunity: The PM Awas Yojana Urban 2.0 addresses the housing needs of urban poor and middle-class families with a substantial investment of Rs 10 lakh crore. The provision of affordable loans and interest subsidies ensures accessible housing solutions. Additionally, the promotion of water supply, sewage treatment, and solid waste management in 100 large cities enhances urban infrastructure. By developing ‘Cities as Growth Hubs’, the government aims to create sustainable urban ecosystems that can drive economic growth and improve living standards.

It provides a rich ground for PR campaigns focused on sustainable urban living.

Analysis: PR agencies can craft narratives that emphasize the transformative impact of these housing and urban development projects. Success stories of families benefiting from affordable housing can be highlighted to showcase the government’s commitment to improving urban living conditions. Additionally, PR campaigns can promote the benefits of sustainable urban infrastructure projects, encouraging public participation and support.

6. Energy Security

Opportunity: The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is a transformative step towards achieving energy security. The installation of rooftop solar plants for 1 crore households, providing free electricity up to 300 units per month, not only reduces energy costs but also promotes sustainable energy consumption. This initiative aligns with India’s renewable energy goals and addresses environmental sustainability. The budget’s focus on energy transition pathways balances the imperatives of employment, growth, and environmental sustainability.

It offers a unique opportunity for PR professionals to promote renewable energy initiatives.

Analysis: PR campaigns can focus on the environmental and economic benefits of rooftop solar plants, encouraging more households to participate in the scheme. Highlighting success stories and testimonials from households that have benefited from free electricity can create a positive buzz. Educational content about the long-term savings and environmental impact of solar energy can further enhance public awareness and participation.

7. Infrastructure

Opportunity: The allocation of Rs 11,11,111 crore for capital expenditure underscores the government’s commitment to infrastructure development. This substantial investment is expected to have a multiplier effect on the economy, driving growth and job creation. The provision of Rs 1.5 lakh crore for interest-free loans to states encourages them to prioritize infrastructure development. By maintaining strong fiscal support for infrastructure, the government aims to build a robust foundation for sustained economic growth.

The substantial investment in infrastructure provides a platform for PR campaigns that emphasize economic growth and development.

Analysis: PR agencies can create narratives that highlight the multiplier effect of infrastructure investments on the economy. Success stories of regions that have benefited from improved infrastructure can be showcased to illustrate the tangible benefits of these projects. PR campaigns can also promote the importance of state-level support and collaboration, encouraging states to prioritize infrastructure development.

8. Innovation, Research & Development

Opportunity: The operationalization of the Anusandhan National Research Fund and the establishment of a private sector-driven research mechanism signify the government’s dedication to innovation. The Rs 1 lakh crore financing pool for research and development aims to spur technological advancements and commercialization. The venture capital fund for expanding the space economy further demonstrates India’s ambition to be at the forefront of cutting-edge technologies. These initiatives are critical for maintaining a culture of innovation and maintaining global competitiveness.

The operationalization of the Anusandhan National Research Fund and private sector-driven research initiatives offer significant PR opportunities.

Analysis: PR campaigns can highlight the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and technological advancements. Stories of successful research projects and technological innovations can inspire further participation from the private sector. PR agencies can also promote the benefits of the venture capital fund for the space economy, positioning India as a leader in space research and development.

9. Next Generation Reforms

Opportunity: The formulation of an Economic Policy Framework for next-generation reforms reflects the government’s forward-thinking approach. By improving productivity and efficiency across factors of production—land, labour, capital, and entrepreneurship—the budget sets the stage for sustainable economic growth. The emphasis on technology as an enabler and the collaboration between the Centre and states highlight the importance of competitive federalism. These reforms aim to create a conducive environment for business, drive investment, and ensure long-term economic stability.

The government’s focus on next-generation reforms offers a platform for PR campaigns that emphasize economic modernization and productivity.

Analysis: PR agencies can craft narratives that explain the importance of reforms in improving productivity and market efficiency. Success stories of businesses and regions that have benefited from these reforms can be highlighted to illustrate their impact. Educational content about the long-term benefits of these reforms can help build public support and understanding.

In nutshell, the Union Budget 2024-25 provides numerous opportunities for PR agencies to play a pivotal role in promoting and enhancing the impact of the government’s initiatives. By building persuasive narratives, highlighting success stories, and educating the public, PR professionals can help ensure that these initiatives reach their full potential, facilitating more informed and supportive populace that will drive India towards its goal of becoming a developed nation.

Ramakant Chaudhary is senior journalist and currently working with PRP Group as Content Head. He has worked in various editorial roles with Financial Express, Mint (Hindustan Times Group), The Times Of India, Jagran Post (Dainik Jagran Group), The Pioneer, and The Political and Business Daily. He writes going beyond headlines on: politics, government policy, economy, infrastructure, real estate, education, social issues, lifestyle, and health.

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The “Finance Leader of the Year” award celebrates Smt. Chopra’s exceptional contributions to the finance industry, she served as an inspiring role model for aspiring finance professionals. Her outstanding achievements in financial management, strategic decision-making, and driving organisational growth have left an indelible mark on the world of finance.

ET Prime Women Leadership Awards, India’s most prestigious awards programme for women leaders, honours eminent personalities from India Inc. and beyond, recognising their achievements in overcoming challenges, promoting diversity and inclusion, and reshaping the landscape of women in leadership across industries. Smt. Chopra emerged as a deserving winner, as determined by a distinguished jury panel headed by Ms Naina Lal Kidwai and other renowned jurors, following a rigorous shortlisting and evaluation process.

Smt. Parminder Chopra is a qualified Cost Accountant and an MBA. With an illustrious career spanning over three and a half decades, she has held crucial positions in Power Sector behemoths. Her visionary approach, meticulous financial planning, and sound decision-making have significantly contributed to PFC’s sustained growth and profitability & journey from Navratna to Maharatna.

Under Smt. Chopra’s leadership, PFC continues to make substantial strides in the Power, Renewable Energy and Infrastructure Finance sectors, positively impacting the nation’s energy landscape.

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FM on Fuel Tax: There is news of work for people troubled by the rising inflation of petrol and diesel. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has made a big announcement on fuel. The Finance Minister has said that the government will now review the new tax imposed on crude oil, diesel-petrol and aviation fuel (ATF) every 15 days. In fact, keeping in mind the international prices, the taxes will be reviewed every fortnight by the government.

Finance Minister said a big thing

Finance Minister Sitharaman said during the conversation that this is a difficult time and global oil prices have become uncontrollable. “We don’t want to discourage exports but want to increase its availability domestically,” he said.

Export tax on petrol, diesel and aviation turbine fuel

The government on Friday also announced a tax on the export of petrol, diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF). This new rule has come into effect from today i.e. July 1.

Tax on locally produced oil

Along with this, it was also announced to impose a tax on locally produced crude oil like Britain. Domestically produced crude oil has been taxed at Rs 23,250 per tonne. Revenue Secretary Tarun Bajaj said the new tax will also apply to SEZ units but there will be no restriction on their exports. At the same time, on the fall of the rupee, the Finance Minister said that the Reserve Bank of India and the government are monitoring the situation. The government is fully conscious of the impact of the rupee’s value on imports.

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The Finance Minister was speaking at an interaction through video conferencing with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) which is marking 125 years of its existence in 2020. Felicitating CII on this milestone, Smt Sitharaman said that CII has played a critical role in the country and its members have played strong roles in their own sectors. She exhorted CII to stand out as an exemplar in the policymaking process.

The interaction had the participation of Shri Ajay Bhushan Pandey, Finance Secretary, Ministry of Finance; Shri Injeti Srinivas, Secretary, MCA, Shri Debasish Panda, Secretary, Department of Financial Service, Dr. T. V. Somanathan, Secretary, Department of Expenditure, Shri Tuhin Kanta Pandey, Secretary, Department of Investment and Public Asset Management, Shri Tarun Bajaj, Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs and Dr. Krishnamurthy Subramanian, Chief Economic Adviser.

Industry needs to reset its relations with workers and plan for labour including unskilled labour, said the Finance Minister. She requested industry to consider a professional manner in the terms for engaging unskilled workers and work towards the skilling of employees at all levels.

On a question regarding the MSME sector, Smt Sitharaman stated that before Covid19 as well, clear handholding was announced for MSME and NBFCs to help enterprises in rural areas. She stated that credit availability for additional term loan and working capital loan was intended to reach all MSME, and hence the Government has provided a guarantee to banks to overcome hesitation in lending. “When Government provides full and partial guarantees with a special purpose vehicle post-lockdown, the banks
hesitation has been addressed,” she said.

Responding to a question on agriculture, the Finance Minister mentioned that comprehensive reforms have been announced. Three model Acts have been shared with State governments. She stated that many states have commenced on land reforms.

The National Infrastructure Pipeline will be given a big push in order to create demand with a multiplier effect, stressed the Finance Minister on a question related to infrastructure. “Large projects will be frontloaded and this will bring in positive energy and sentiments,” said Smt Sitharaman.

The Finance Minister noted that there has been a fair and open interaction on GST which has come to the bottom quarter in inflows. Discussions are underway on this.

She agreed that infusion of liquidity in the power sector of Rs 90,000 crore would be fast-tracked.

Concerns that large industry too is facing a lot of stress, particularly in certain sectors such as tourism, automotives and aviation were also discussed. Discussions need to be undertaken to protect jobs, increase demand, and ensure survival of large businesses, industry requested.

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Loans worth over Rs 6.45 lakh crore were sanctioned by PSBs during March 1 – May 15 for 54.96 lakh accounts from MSME, Retail, Agriculture & Corporate sectors; A notable increase compared to the Rs 5.95 lakh crore sanctioned as of May 8, the Finance Ministry said

Public Sector Banks sanctioned over Rs 1.03 lakh crore as emergency credit lines & working capital enhancements in the period March 20 to May 15, which is a substantial increase over the Rs 65,879 crore that had been sanctioned up to May 8.

It may be noted that with the lockdown coming into effect from March 25, state-owned banks had opened an additional line of credit of 10 per cent of the existing fund based on working capital limits, subject to a maximum of Rs 200 crore.

India has been under lockdown from March 25 to check the spread of coronavirus. The lockdown has been extended till May 31 with some relaxations.

Meanwhile In a communication to the States, Union Ministry of Home Affairs has noted that fear of COVID-19 infection and apprehension of loss of livelihood are the main driving factors for the movement of stranded workers towards their homes. In order to mitigate the distress of migrant workers, the communication stresses on a number of measures that may be taken by the State governments, pro-actively in coordination with the Centre.

These include Run more Buses, ensure their Smooth Transition across States and inter-State borders; Create en-route Rest Places with basic amenities for people on foot, till they are guided to bus/rail stations; Dispel rumours, give clarity on train/bus departures.

With the country fighting Covid-19 pandemic and under lockdown, availability of essentials like food and health services to the masses is crucial. While for the consumers it is important that their supplies are maintained; for farmers too, it is imperative that the value chain starting with them is up and running to market their produce even under restrictions.

Taking the initiative further in this context, Mother Dairy, a wholly owned subsidiary of National Dairy Development Board, contributed in stabilizing the dairy supply chain in Vidarbha and Marathwada Region amid Lockdown. Located in Civil Lines area of Nagpur city, Mother Dairy is extending all possible support to farmers and procuring an average milk volume of 2.55 lakh litres per day in Vidarbha and Marathwada region

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Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi yesterday announced a Special economic and comprehensive package of Rs 20 lakh crores – equivalent to 10% of India’s GDP. He gave a clarion call for आत्मनिर्भर भारत अभियान or Self-Reliant India Movement. He also outlined five pillars of Aatmanirbhar Bharat – Economy, Infrastructure, System, Vibrant Demography and Demand.

During the press conference here today, Union Minister of Finance & Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman said in her opening remarks that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had laid out a comprehensive vision in his address to the Nation yesterday. She further said that after spending considerable time, the Prime Minister has himself ensured that inputs obtained from widespread consultation form a part of economic package in fight against COVID-19.

“Essentially, the goal is to build a self-reliant India that is why the Economic Package is called Aatma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan. Citing the pillars on which we seek to build Aatma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan, Smt. Sitharaman said our focus would be on land, labour, liquidity and law.

The Finance Minister further said that the Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has been listening and is a responsive Government, hence it is fitting to recall some reforms which have been undertaken since 2014.

“Soon after Budget 2020 came COVID-19 and within hours of the announcement of Lockdown 1.0, Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojna (PMGKY) was announced,” Smt. Sitharaman said. She further said that we are going to build on this package.

“Beginning today, for the next few days, I shall be coming here with the entire team of the Ministry of Finance to detail the Prime Minister’s vision for Aatma Nirbhar Bharat laid out by the Prime Minister yesterday,” Smt Sitharaman said.

Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman today announced measures focused on Getting back to work i.e., enabling employees and employers, businesses, especially Micro Small and Medium Enterprises, to get back to production and workers back to gainful employment. Efforts to strengthen Non-Banking Finance Institutions (NBFCs), Housing Finance Companies (HFCs), Micro Finance Sector and Power Sector were also unfolded. Other than this, the tax relief to business, relief from contractual commitments to contractors in public procurement and compliance relief to real estate sector were also covered.

Over the last five years, the Government has actively taken various measures for the industry and MSME. For the Real Estate sector, the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act [RERA] was enacted in 2016 to bring in more transparency into the industry. A special fund for affordable and middle income housing was set up last year to help with the stress in this segment. To help MSMEs with the issue of delayed payment by any Government department or PSUs, Samadhaan Portal was launched in 2017. A Fund of Funds for startups was set up under SIDBI to boost entrepreneurship in the country and various other credit guarantee schemes to help flow of credit to the MSMEs.

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The first such survey was conducted in rural parts of the country during National Sample Survey (NSS) 59th round (January 2003- December 2003). Thereafter, a repeat survey was conducted during NSS 70th round (January 2013- December 2013). As per the Survey results, which although not strictly comparable, the average monthly income per agricultural household from various sources is estimated to have increased from Rs. 2115 in 2003 to Rs. 6426 in 2013.

The Survey report has not mentioned the reasons for low level of income of agricultural households in the country. However, predominance of small and marginal operational holdings, low irrigation coverage, poor soil health, inadequate marketing facilities and post-harvest supporting services, and lack of focus on the allied sectors of agriculture, etc., may be attributed as main reasons for low level of growth of income of people engaged in the agriculture sector.

Growth rate of Gross Value Added (GVA) in agriculture and allied sector is directly and indirectly affected by various factors, including changes in income of agricultural households. With a view to make agriculture more remunerative, various Schemes are implemented by the Government, viz., Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY); Soil Health Card (SHC) Scheme; National Agriculture Market Scheme (e-NAM); Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY); National Food Security Mission (NFSM); Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA); Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH); and Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY). Besides, Government has adopted the principle of fixing Minimum Support Price (MSP) at a level of 50 per cent over the all-India weighted average cost of production of crops.

Moreover, with a view to provide income support to all farmers’ families across the country, the Central Government has started a new Central Sector Scheme, namely, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN). The Scheme aims to provide a payment of Rs. 6000/- per year, in three installments of Rs. 2000/- each to the farmer families, subject to certain exclusions relating to higher income groups.

Government has also focused on the aggregation of small and marginal farmers into groups for overcoming market imperfections and to realize better prices for their produce.

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The current income-tax regime and the new one will exist simultaneously, with the option of choosing between the two. You, the taxpayer, will now have to decide which one works for you.  Ironically, the ‘simpler’ tax regime comes with embedded complications, triggering confusion rather than a sense of relief. Here is a five-point guide to making the right choice.

Plan ahead to take an informed call

There is no single answer to the ‘switch or stick’ question. And, it doesn’t just depend on your income or salary structure. You also need to look at your investment habits, your age, life-stage, goals, responsibilities and likely expenses. You will have to plot your actual income and deduction figures to decide whether to switch or not.

For example, if you are a young individual and dislike paperwork, and claim little or no tax-saver benefits, the new regime might sound inviting. Forgoing these tax benefits to ensure more money in your hands will not be a difficult choice to make.

However, for those who do take multiple tax breaks, the older regime will help save more on taxes.

Therefore, financial planning is now more critical than ever. Start planning right away to be prepared to take a call before your employers ask you to submit your proposed investment declarations, from the April of every year. Your employer deducts your tax from your salary through the year on the basis of the indicative declarations you make. Even those who have documentation-phobia will have to put themselves through this process at least once. “Salaried tax-payers have the option of switching between the regimes, something that those who draw business income do not have. So, if you are a salaried individual, you can always change your course next year,” says Ameya Kunte, Founder, Globeview Advisors, a tax consulting firm.

Old is gold for most

Financial advisors are unanimous in their opinion: the older regime is better for most if you have been availing of multiple tax benefits, mainly those that give you an impetus to invest, such as section 80C and 80CCD tax benefits. “In most cases, the old regime will turn out to be beneficial. Only those who did not make an effort to invest in section 80C’s avenues and avail of other deductions or could not utilise this Rs 1.5-lakh limit due to higher expenses could find their tax outgo going down in the new regime,” says Pankaj Mathpal, a Mumbai-based financial planner.

For example, if your total income is Rs 7.25 lakh or Rs 10 lakh and you take 80C benefits and standard deduction, your tax outgo will be lower by Rs 18,720 and Rs 3,120 respectively in the old regime vis-à-vis the new one. Those earning say Rs 15 lakh could save Rs 14,820 in the new regime.

However, most individuals also utilise other benefits apart from the section 80C. For instance, house rent allowance (section 10), home loan interest paid of up to Rs 2 lakh (section 24B), health insurance premium paid of up to Rs 25,000 for those under 60 (section 80D), NPS contribution of up to Rs 50,000 [section 80CC D(1B)] help a great deal in bringing down the taxable income. So, if you earn Rs 15 lakh and also pay a home loan interest of Rs 2 lakh, besides claiming standard deduction and section 80C tax deduction benefits, you will be poorer by Rs 47,850 in the new regime. Put simply, the higher the number of deductions and exemptions, the better it is for you to stick to the old regime.

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The Key Highlights of Union Budget 2020-21 are as follows:

Three prominent themes of the Budget

• Aspirational India – better standards of living with access to health, education and better jobs for all sections of the society
• Economic Development for all – “Sabka Saath , Sabka Vikas , Sabka Vishwas”.
• Caring Society – both humane and compassionate; Antyodaya as an article of faith.
• Three broad themes are held together by:
  • Corruption free, policy-driven Good Governance.
  • Clean and sound financial sector.
• Ease of Living underlined by the three themes of Union Budget 2020-21.

Three components of Aspirational India

• Agriculture, Irrigation, and Rural Development
• Wellness, Water, and Sanitation
• Education and Skills

Sixteen Action Points for Agriculture, Irrigation and Rural Development

• Rs. 2.83 lakh crore to be allocated for the following 16 Action Points:
  • Rs. 1.60 lakh crore for Agriculture, Irrigation & allied activities.
  • Rs. 1.23 lakh crore for Rural development & Panchayati Raj.                          –
• Agriculture credit:
  • Rs. 15 lakh crore target set for the year 2020-21.
  • PM-KISAN beneficiaries to be covered under the KCC scheme.
  • NABARD Re-finance Scheme to be further expanded.
• Comprehensive measures for 100 water-stressed districts proposed.
• Blue Economy:
  • Rs. 1 lakh crore fisheries’ exports to be achieved by 2024-25.
  • 200 lakh tonnes fish production targeted by 2022-23.
  • 3477 Sagar Mitras and 500 Fish Farmer Producer Organisations to involve youth in fisheries extension.
  • Growing of algae, sea-weed and cage culture to be promoted.
  • Framework for development, management and conservation of marine fishery resources.
• Kisan Rail to be setup by Indian Railways through PPP:
  • To build a seamless national cold supply chain for perishables (milk, meat, fish, etc.
  • Express and Freight trains to have refrigerated coaches.
• Krishi Udaan to be launched by the Ministry of Civil Aviation:
  • Both international and national routes to be covered.
  • North-East and tribal districts to realize Improved value of agri-products.
• One-Product One-District for better marketing and export in the Horticulture sector.
• Balanced use of all kinds of fertilizers – traditional organic and innovative fertilizers.
• Measures for organic, natural, and integrated farming:
  • Jaivik Kheti Portal – online national organic products market to be strengthened.
  • Zero-Budget Natural Farming (mentioned in July 2019 Budget) to be included.

o Integrated Farming Systems in rain-fed areas to be expanded.

o Multi-tier cropping, bee-keeping, solar pumps, solar energy production in non-cropping season to be added.

• PM-KUSUM to be expanded:
  • 20 lakh farmers to be provided for setting up stand-alone solar pumps.
  • Another 15 lakh farmers to be helped to solarise their grid-connected pump sets.
  • Scheme to enable farmers to set up solar power generation capacity on their fallow/barren lands and to sell it to the grid.
• Village Storage Scheme:
  • To be run by the SHGs to provide farmers a good holding capacity and reduce their logistics cost.
  • Women, SHGs to regain their position as Dhaanya Lakshmi.
• NABARD to map and geo-tag agri-warehouses, cold storages, reefer van facilities, etc.
• Warehousing in line with Warehouse Development and Regulatory Authority (WDRA) norms:
  • Viability Gap Funding for setting up such efficient warehouses at the block/taluk level.
  • Food Corporation of India (FCI) and Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) to undertake such warehouse building.
• Financing on Negotiable Warehousing Receipts (e-NWR) to be integrated with e-NAM.
• State governments who undertake implementation of model laws (issued by the Central government) to be encouraged.
• Livestock:
  • Doubling of milk processing capacity to 108 million MT from 53.5 million MT by 2025.
  • Artificial insemination to be increased to 70% from the present 30%.
  • MNREGS to be dovetailed to develop fodder farms.
  • Foot and Mouth Disease, Brucellosis in cattle and Peste Des Petits ruminants (PPR) in sheep and goat to be eliminated by 2025.
• Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana – 0.5 crore households mobilized with 58 lakh SHGs for poverty alleviation.

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