Context: Recently, the National Rainfed Area Authority (NRAA), in collaboration with the Revitalising Rainfed Agriculture Network (RRAN) and Watershed Support Services & Activities Network (WASSAN), had organized this Multi-Stakeholder Convention in New Delhi.

• Note: 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.

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:

• Water conservation and covers all aspects of sustainable and holistic development of rainfed areas, including appropriate farming and livelihood system approaches.

• Issues pertaining to landless and marginal farmers, who constitute the large majority of inhabitants of rainfed areas, are to be addressed by the Authority.  

• 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. 

• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare