Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA)

• PM-AASHA was launched in 2018 to ensure that farmers receive remunerative prices for their produce, particularly when market prices fall below the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
• The scheme primarily focuses on pulses, oilseeds and copra.
• It seeks to strengthen the effectiveness of the MSP system beyond procurement of wheat and rice.

Key Components

1. Price Support Scheme (PSS)

• Government agencies procure notified pulses, oilseeds and copra at MSP.
• Procurement is undertaken when market prices fall below MSP, subject to applicable conditions.
• NAFED and NCCF are important procurement agencies.

2. Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS)

• Farmers are compensated for the difference between the MSP and the market/modal price.
• Unlike PSS, the government does not necessarily physically procure the produce.
• It is particularly relevant for oilseeds.

3. Price Stabilization Fund / Market Intervention

• Supports measures aimed at price stabilisation and protecting farmers from sharp price fluctuations.
• The broader framework has evolved through subsequent modifications of PM-AASHA.

4. Private Procurement & Stockist Scheme (PPSS)

• Allows private agencies to participate in procurement of notified oilseeds in selected areas.
• Intended to supplement government procurement capacity.

Why PM-AASHA Is Important

• MSP Protection: Provides a mechanism to protect farmers when market prices fall.
• Income Security: Helps reduce price-related income uncertainty.
• Crop Diversification: Greater support for pulses and oilseeds can encourage diversification away from cereal-centric farming.
• Import Dependence: Higher domestic production of pulses and oilseeds can help reduce dependence on imports.
• Consumer Interest: Better supply management can also contribute to price stability for consumers.

Prelims MCQ

Q. With reference to PM-AASHA, consider the following statements:

1. It seeks to provide price protection to farmers.
2. Price Support Scheme (PSS) involves procurement of notified crops at MSP.
3. Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS) necessarily requires physical procurement of the produce by the government.
4. Pulses and oilseeds are among the major crops covered under the scheme.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 4 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 4 only

Explanation: Under PDPS, farmers receive compensation for the price difference; physical procurement is not necessary.