News: The National Rainfed Area Authority, in collaboration with other agencies, organised a workshop to stimulate discussions and policy discourse on rainfed areas.
About National Rainfed Area Authority
- It was established in 2006 as an expert body to provide knowledge input regarding systemic upgradation and management of the country’s dry land and rainfed agriculture.
- Mission: To promote prosperity of farmers and ensure inclusive growth in rainfed areas of the country on a sustainable basis.
- Mandate: Its mandate is wider than just water conservation and covers all aspects of sustainable and holistic development of rainfed areas. It also addresses issues related to landless and marginal farmers.
- Governance Structure: It has a two tier structure
- Governing Board: It is the first tier that provides leadership and coordinates the implementation of the programmes.
- It is chaired by the Union Agriculture Minister.
- Executive Committee: It is the second tier that consists of technical experts and representatives from stakeholder Ministries.
- It is headed by a full-time Chief Executive Officer, supported by five full-time technical experts.
- Governing Board: It is the first tier that provides leadership and coordinates the implementation of the programmes.
- Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
| As per the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, rainfed agriculture occupies about 51% of country’s net sown area and accounts for nearly 40% of the total food production. |
