News: PM-AASHA aims to ensure that the benefits of MSP reach farmers, particularly small and marginal farmers, while stabilising farm incomes and food prices.

About

• PM-AASHA = Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan.
• Launched in September 2018.
• Brings multiple price-support mechanisms under one framework.
• Implemented through Central Nodal Agencies and State Governments.

Key Components

Price Support Scheme (PSS)

• Procurement at MSP when market prices fall below MSP.
• Covers pulses, oilseeds and copra.
• Procurement by NAFED and NCCF.
• From 2024–25, procurement allowed up to 25% of State/UT production.
• Tur, Urad and Masur can be procured up to 100% of State production.

Price Stabilization Fund (PSF)

• Protects consumers from price volatility.
• Maintains buffer stocks of commodities like pulses, onions and potatoes.
• Merged with PM-AASHA but managed by the Department of Consumer Affairs.

Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS)

• No physical procurement of produce.
• Price difference between MSP and market price is paid directly to farmers' bank accounts, up to 15% of MSP value.
• Mainly used for oilseeds.

Market Intervention Scheme (MIS)

• Covers perishable horticultural commodities such as Tomato, Onion and Potato (TOP).
• Useful during glut situations.
• Activated when prices fall by at least 10% compared with the previous normal season.

Significance

• Provides income protection to farmers.
• Reduces distress sales when market prices fall.
• Helps control food-price volatility.
• Promotes better farm-to-market connectivity through initiatives such as AIF and e-NAM.