In February 2025, the Indian government announced a six-year program to boost the production of which agricultural commodity to reduce import dependence? ​

Correct option is C

The correct answer is: (c) Pulses

Explanation:

• In February 2025, the Government of India launched a six-year “Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses” aimed at boosting domestic pulse production and reducing the country's reliance on imports .

• This initiative specifically targets key pulses such as tur (pigeon pea), urad (black gram), and masoor (lentil).

• The program includes guaranteed procurement by state agencies (NAFED, NCCF), support prices, and enhanced post-harvest infrastructure, all designed to achieve self-sufficiency by 2029 .

• India is the world's largest importer of pulses, spending around $5 billion in 2024 — a driving force behind this mission .

• The mission is backed by a ₹1,000 crore budget allocation to support farmers, market linkages, seed development, and warehousing .

• With focused aid for tur, urad, and masoor, the mission emphasizes productivity, storage solutions, and pricing support to curb imports .

• India aims to be import-free in pulses by 2029 .