The National Food Security Mission (NFSM) was launched in 2007 by the National Development Council (NDC). The main aim of NFSM is to increase production, technology transfer and decentralised planning. Let’s find out about the mission, its needs, its impact, and how it is changing the agricultural structure of the country.

What Is The National Food Security Mission?

NFSM aims to improve farming and ensure food for everyone. It focuses on increasing the production of crops like rice, wheat, and pulses. The production is increased by providing farmers with better seeds, technologies and farming practices. 

The government launched the National Food Security Act in 2013 with the intention of 75% coverage of the rural population and up to 50% coverage of the urban population to receive subsidised food grains under the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS).

Main Principles Of The National Food Security Act

There are several principles of the NFSA. 

• Every pregnant woman and new mother will get free meals from their local Anganwadi for 6 months to meet the nutritional standards.

• Every child between the ages of 6 months to 6 years will get free meals at their local Anganwadi.

• Free mid-day meal for children between the ages of six to fourteen. 

• Free meals to malnourished children through their local Anganwadis. 

What Are The Objectives Of National Food Security Mission?

The main objectives of NFSM are:

• Improve technology.

• Ensure food security all over the nation.

• Improve the production and productivity of wheat, rice and pulses on a sustainable basis.

What Are The Benefits Of NFSM?

The scheme provides the following benefits.

• Boost production and productivity of crops.

• Promote and extend improved technologies through Cluster Demonstration, Cluster Frontline Demonstration, and Frontline Demonstration. 

• Assist with the production and distribution of quality seeds.

• Support nutrient management and pest control.

• Offer flexible support for farm implements/machines, farmer training and water-carrying pipes.

How To Apply for The National Food Security Mission?

Only the farmers willing to cooperate and contribute some of their resources will be selected as a beneficiary. 

1. With the help of Gram Panchayats, identify beneficiaries. Panchayati Raj Institutions will assist in selecting farmers.

2. Funds will be released to the State governments with the approval of the NFSM-EC.

3. Then the State governments will release the funds to the State Level Agency through PFMS/Treasury.

4. State Level Agencies will then allocate funds to District Level Agencies based on approved district programs.

5. The District Level Agency will then release the funds to the Implementing Agency and beneficiary.

What Documents Are Required?

• Aadhaar card

• Caste certificate SC/ST

• Bank details

• Other specified documents may vary depending on the type of intervention and the state. 

Conclusion

NFSM has helped farmers increase their crop yields and also improve their livelihood. NFSM has brought an increase of 20 million metric tons in food grain production. This has made sure there’s enough food for everyone throughout the country. 

To read in detail, visit the [National Food Security Mission (NFSM)](https://www.darpg.gov.in/sites/default/files/National Food Security Mission.pdf) portal.