Rajasthan

• 22 Jan 2025

Centre Extends Deadline to Procure Soybean

Why in News? 

The Union Agriculture Ministry has decided to extend the deadline for procuring soybeans from Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Telangana. 

 Key Points 

• Extension of Soybean Procurement Deadline: 
  • Total soybean procurement across all States has reached 13.68 lakh tonnes, compared to the target of 33.60 lakh tonnes. 
  • The Ministry attributed the decrease in procurement to the State governments, stating they are responsible for making procurement arrangements. 
• Review Meeting on Agricultural Issues: 
  • The Agriculture Minister chaired a review meeting with senior officials to discuss key agriculture-related issues. 
  • Topics included farm produce management, marketing of agri-products, import-export dynamics, and weather conditions. 
  • He emphasized holding periodic meetings with State Agriculture Ministers to address agricultural challenges. 

 Soyabean Crop 

• Soyabean is a Kharif crop in India. 
• Soybean (Glycine max) is the world’s most important seed legumes which contributes 25% to the global edible oil, about two third of the world protein concentrate for livestock feeding and is a valuable ingredient in formulated feeds for poultry and fish. 
• It is predominantly grown as a rainfed crop in Vertisols and associated soils with an average crop season rainfall of 900 mm. 
• Major Producing States in India: Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.