National Rainfed Area Authority (NRAA)

India has nearly 52% of its net sown area under rainfed agriculture, contributing significantly to food grains, pulses, oilseeds, millets and livestock production. To ensure sustainable development of these ecologically fragile regions, the National Rainfed Area Authority (NRAA) was established in 2006. It serves as the apex advisory body for promoting integrated and climate-resilient development of rainfed areas.

About National Rainfed Area Authority (NRAA):

• Established: 2006 (Government of India Resolution dated 3 November 2006).
• Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare.
• Nature: Apex advisory, policy-making and monitoring body for rainfed agriculture.
• Headquarters: New Delhi.
• Objective: To provide policy guidance and promote integrated development of rainfed areas through sustainable natural resource management and farming system approaches.
• Coverage: Focuses on rainfed and dryland regions, particularly benefiting small and marginal farmers.
• Governance:
  • Governing Board chaired by the Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare.
  • Co-chaired by the Union Minister of Rural Development.
  • Executive Committee headed by a Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Functions of NRAA

• Formulates national policies and strategies for rainfed agriculture.
• Promotes Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) for sustainable livelihoods.
• Facilitates convergence of agriculture, watershed, forestry and rural development programmes.
• Advises on watershed development and natural resource management.
• Identifies priority rainfed regions and prepares integrated development plans.
• Promotes climate-resilient and resource-efficient farming practices.
• Supports research, capacity building and technology dissemination in dryland agriculture.
• Monitors and evaluates programmes related to rainfed area development.

The National Rainfed Area Authority plays a crucial role in enhancing the productivity, resilience and sustainability of India’s rainfed regions through integrated planning, watershed management and climate-resilient agriculture, thereby contributing to farmers’ livelihoods and long-term food security.