Agriculture — Major Crops (Part II)

Figure 1: Major crops in India including commercial crops, spices, and horticulture crops are frequently tested in UPSC examinations.

1. Jute

Context: The National Jute Board projects a 20% decline in jute production for FY 2024-25, attributing the drop to natural calamities.

About Jute Crop

• Often referred to as the "Golden fiber" due to its color and high economic value.
• Jute is a kharif crop, primarily used to produce eco-friendly products such as gunny bags, ropes, mats, and carpets.
• Serves as a vital raw material for the packaging industry.
• India competes with Bangladesh, which excels in the quality of finished jute products.

Growth Conditions

• Temperature: Hot and humid conditions with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 35°C.
• Rainfall: Thrives well in areas with well-distributed rainfall of 250 cm spread over the vegetative growth period with no cloudiness.
• Humidity: Requires mean relative humidity of about 65%.
• Soil: Jute can be raised on all kinds of soils from clay to sandy loam, but loamy alluvial are best suited. Laterite and gravel soils are not suitable.

Production Statistics

• Top Jute Producing States: West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, Meghalaya, Nagaland. West Bengal accounts for over 75% of India's jute production.
• India is the world's largest producer of raw jute, contributing to over 50% of the global jute supply, followed by Bangladesh with 25%.

Challenges

• High labor costs and manual retting processes reduce profitability.
• Flooding and waterlogging can adversely impact quality and yield.

Jute Packaging Materials Act (JPMA) 1987

• Makes it compulsory to pack 100% of the food grains and 20% of the sugar in diversified jute (gunny) bags.

About National Jute Board

• Statutory organization under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.
• Governed by National Jute Board Act, 2008 (enacted on February 12, 2009).
• Dedicated to the promotion, development, and expansion of the jute industry in India.
• Headed by the Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, who serves as Chairperson.

Key Initiative — Jute-ICARE

• Jute: Improved Cultivation and Advanced Retting Exercise
• Objective: Support small and marginal jute growers with adequate pre and post-harvesting operations.
• Make growers aware about the latest technologies in the country.

Key Points:

• Jute — "Golden fiber"; Kharif crop; 15-35°C; 250 cm rainfall
• West Bengal accounts for 75% of India's jute production
• India — largest producer of raw jute (>50% global supply)
• JPMA 1987: 100% food grains, 20% sugar in jute bags

2. Tur (Arhar or Pigeon Pea)

Context: The government extends free import policy for tur dal until March 2026.

About Tur Crop

• Tur is the second most important pulse in India.
• Mainly cultivated as a kharif crop, though it can also be grown as a rabi crop in regions with mild winters.
• Thrives in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH range of 6 to 7.5.
• Ideal climate: Moist conditions initially, followed by drier weather during flowering and pod development.
• Often cultivated as a mixed crop alongside jowar, bajra, ragi, maize, cotton, and groundnut.
• Major Producing States: Karnataka, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh.

3. Cotton

Context: India's cotton production is expected to decline due to reduced acreage and excessive rainfall.

About Cotton Crop

• One of the most important fiber and cash crops of India.
• Provides direct livelihood to 6 million farmers and employs 40-50 million people in trade and processing.
• India accounts for around 23% of total global cotton production.
• India is the only country which grows all four species of cotton:
  • G. Arboreum & G. Herbaceum — Asian cotton
  • G. Barbadense — Egyptian cotton
  • G. Hirsutum — American Upland cotton
• Cotton is a kharif crop in most parts of the country but also grown as Rabi crop in southern states.

Growth Conditions

• Temperature:
  • 15°C for better germination.
  • Optimum for vegetative growth: 21-27°C.
  • Optimum for boll development: 27-32°C.
  • Above 38°C yields are reduced.
• Frost: Very sensitive to frost; minimum 200 frost-free days required.
• Growing Period: ~150 to 180 days.
• Rainfall: 70-120 cm. Extensively grown under rainfed conditions. Continuous rain during flowering and boll opening impairs pollination and reduces fibre quality.
• Soil: Grown on a variety of soils — well-drained deep alluvial soils (north), black clayey soils (central region), black and mixed soils (south zone).

Production Statistics

• Top Cotton Producing States: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh.
• Top Cotton Producing Countries: China, India, USA, Brazil.
• Uses: Textile production, edible oil from cottonseed, and livestock feed.

About Cotton Corporation of India (CCI)

• CCI (a Miniratna company) established in 1970 under the administrative control of the Ministry of Textiles.
• Responsible for ensuring cotton farmers receive a fair price.
• Conducts Minimum Support Price (MSP) operations when raw cotton prices fall below the government's announced support price.
• Headquarters: Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra.

4. Sugarcane

Context: The government lifted last year's ban and approved the use of sugarcane juice and sugar syrup for ethanol production in the 2024-25 ethanol supply year (ESY).

About Sugarcane Crop

• Often referred to as tropical grass, it is one of the most important commercial crops in India.
• It is a long-duration crop, taking 10 to 18 months to mature.
• Needs abundant sunlight during the growing phase for photosynthesis and sugar accumulation.
• Sugarcane, native to India, is a member of the bamboo family.

Growing Regions

• Sub-Tropical: Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Punjab, Bihar — annual rainfall 180-2000 mm.
• Tropical region: Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh — annual rainfall 602-3640 mm.

Growth Conditions

• Temperature: Ideal range: 21°C to 27°C; sensitive to extreme heat (above 30°C) and frost.
• Rainfall: Requires 75-150 cm of well-distributed rainfall.
• Soil Type: Requires soils rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Production Statistics

• Top Sugar Producing States: Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat.

About FRP (Fair and Remunerative Price)

• FRP is the price that the Centre's Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) decides.
• Based on sugar recovery from the cane.
• For sugar season 2024-25, FRP is Rs 340/quintal at a recovery of 10.25%.
• Sugar recovery is the ratio between sugar produced versus cane crushed, expressed as a percentage.
• Since sugarcane has a very short shelf life, sugar mills are responsible for its procurement and are mandatorily required to pay the FRP upfront upon purchase.

Key Points:

• Sugarcane — 10-18 months maturity; 21-27°C; 75-150 cm rainfall
• FRP based on sugar recovery; Rs 340/quintal for 2024-25
• Top states: UP, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat

5. Tobacco

Context: Over 5500 children have started using tobacco daily, prompting ministries to strengthen anti-tobacco measures.

About Tobacco Crop

• Significant commercial crop contributing substantially to the nation's economy through domestic consumption and exports.
• Tobacco cultivation in India was introduced by the Portuguese in 1605 (17th century).
• It is a drought-tolerant, hardy, and short-duration crop which can be grown on soils where other crops cannot be cultivated profitably.
• India is the 2nd largest producer and exporter after China and Brazil respectively.

Growth Conditions

• Temperature: Optimal growth at 20°C-27°C. Largely thrives in tropical and subtropical climates.
• Soil: Light, sandy loam soils with good drainage and pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
• Requires a frost-free period of 90 to 120 days from transplanting to the last harvest.

Types of Tobacco

• Nicotiana tabacum: Grown in tropical climates; used for cigarettes, cigars, hookah. Widely cultivated in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat. 90% of total production.
• Nicotiana rustica: Thrives in cooler climates; used for chewing tobacco, snuff. Cultivated in northern states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

Production Statistics

• Top Tobacco Producing States: Gujarat (45%), Andhra Pradesh (20%), Uttar Pradesh (15%), Karnataka.

About Tobacco Board of India

• Statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Established in 1976 through the Tobacco Board Act, 1975.
• Regulates production, marketing, and export of tobacco.
• Headquarters: Guntur, Andhra Pradesh.

About Central Tobacco Research Institute (CTRI)

• Premier agricultural research institution established in 1947.
• Operates under ICAR, Ministry of Agriculture.
• Headquarters: Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh.

6. Onion

Context: Onion prices remained high due to strong export demand, delayed rainfall, and crop damage.

About Onion

• One of the most widely cultivated and consumed vegetable crops in India and globally.
• Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and sulfur compounds.
• Onion is a temperate crop but can be grown under a wide range of climatic conditions.

Growth Conditions

• Temperature: Vegetative phase: 13-24°C; Bulb development: 16-25°C.
• Rainfall: Moderate and evenly distributed rainfall (average annual 65-75 cm).
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy loam, or alluvial soils with good moisture retention. Optimum pH 6.0-7.5.

Cropping Seasons

• Rabi: Longer shelf life, premium price.
• Kharif and Late Kharif (Aug–Mar): Shorter shelf life due to higher moisture content.

Production Statistics

• India is the second-largest producer of onions globally, after China.
• India is a major exporter to countries like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and UAE.
• Major Producing States: Maharashtra (largest producer), Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka.

7. Potato

Context: Potato prices reached a 4-year high, while vegetable prices surge across markets this winter.

About Potato Crop

• Originated in the Andean region of South America (Peru and Bolivia).
• Excellent source of energy due to high carbohydrate content; also provides Vitamin C, Potassium.

Growth Conditions

• Temperature: Vegetative growth best at 24°C; tuber development favoured at 20°C.
• Rainfall: Moderate rainfall (120–200 cm) per annum during early growth stages.
• Soil: Well-drained loamy or sandy loam soils rich in organic matter. Can be cultivated up to 3,000 meters altitude.

Major Producers

• Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab.

8. Tomato

Context: The price of tomatoes dropped by over 22% in a month, driven by improved supply.

Growth Conditions

• Temperature: 21–24°C; prefers sandy or red loam soils.
• Rainfall: Moderate and evenly distributed, ideally between 50 to 75 cm.
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy loam or red loam soils rich in organic matter; pH 6.0-7.0.

About Operation Greens

• Initiative aims to boost production and supply of fruits, vegetables, and other perishable agricultural commodities.
• Scope expanded from TOP (Tomato, Onion, Potato) crops to TOTAL (all fruits and vegetables).

Long Term Interventions

• Boosting Farmers' Value Realization: Strengthening production clusters and FPOs.
• Minimizing Post-Harvest Losses: Farm-gate infrastructure, agri-logistics, storage.
• Enhancing Food Processing and Value Addition: Expanding processing capacities.

Short Term Interventions

• Protect growers from distress sale and reduce post-harvest losses.
• Subsidy at 50% on transportation and hiring of storage facilities for TOP Crops.

9. Mango

Context: CM Yogi Adityanath inaugurates the Uttar Pradesh Mango Festival, celebrating the state's rich mango diversity and production.

About Mango Crop

• Known as the "King of Fruits".
• India is the largest global producer and exporter.
• Planting usually done in July-August (rainfed) and February-March (irrigated).

Growth Conditions

• Temperature: 20–30°C.
• Rainfall: 75–375 cm.
• Soil: Loamy, alluvial, well-drained, aerated and deep soils rich in organic matter; pH 5.5-7.5.

Key States

• Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar and Telangana.

Mango Varieties with GI Certification

• Uttar Pradesh: Malihabadi Dasheri, Dasheri, Banarasi Langra, Rataul
• Maharashtra: Marathwada Kesar, Alphonso (Hapus)
• West Bengal: Fazli, Lakshmanbhog, Khirsapati (Himsagar)
• Gujarat: Gir Kesar
• Bihar: Zardalu
• Andhra Pradesh: Banganapalle
• Karnataka: Appemidi, Kari Ishad
• Kerala: Kuttiatoor
• Madhya Pradesh: Rewa Sundreja

10. Banana

Context: The Banana Festival kicks off in Mysuru, highlighting the diverse varieties of the fruit.

Growth Conditions

• Temperature: Optimal 25°C–30°C; below 12°C growth is significantly affected.
• Rainfall: Annual rainfall of 150–200 cm, well-distributed.
• Soil: Deep, well-drained loamy or alluvial soils with adequate organic matter; pH 5.0–7.0.
• Altitude: Sea level to 1,000 meters.

Major Banana Producing States

• Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh.

11. Orange

Context: Human-induced climate change poses a serious threat to Nagpur oranges, raising concerns about preservation of this agricultural heritage.

Growth Conditions

• Temperature: Optimal 10–35°C; sensitive to extreme cold and frost.
• Rainfall: 100-120 cm annual rainfall. Excess moisture during fruit maturity can reduce sweetness.
• Soil: Well-drained sandy or red loam soils; pH 6.0–7.5.
• Altitude: 600 to 1,500 meters.

Major Growing Regions

• Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Haryana.

Note: Nagpur Orange, known for its sweetness, thin peel, and juiciness, holds a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

12. National Horticulture Board

• Autonomous organization under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
• Established in 1984 to support integrated development of the horticulture sector.
• Board of Directors headed by Union Agriculture Minister as President and Minister of State for Agriculture as Vice-President.
• Headquarters: Gurugram, Haryana.
• Supports high-tech horticulture projects, promotes cold chain infrastructure, and encourages cluster-based approach.

13. Tea

Context: The tea industry reports a decline in overall production but sees a rise in exports in 2024.

About Tea Plant

• Tea plant, indigenous to China, was introduced to India by the British in the 1830s.
• Made from dried leaves of the tea bush; contains stimulants like caffeine, tannin, and theine.
• First commercial plantations established in Upper Assam, with expansions in Lower Assam, Darjeeling, Nilgiris, Terai, and Himachal Pradesh.

Growth Conditions

• Temperature: Warm, humid climate with 13°C to 28-32°C conducive for growth.
• Rainfall: 150-300 cm distributed evenly throughout the year.
• Soil: Deep, well-drained, loamy soils rich in humus and iron content; pH 4.5-5.5.
• Tea plants grow best in shaded areas and require frost-free conditions.

Production Statistics

• India is the second-largest tea producer globally, contributing 21% of the world's tea, behind China.
• Major Tea Producing States: Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka.

About Tea Board of India

• Constituted on 1st April 1954 under the Tea Act of 1953.
• Statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Headquarters: Kolkata, West Bengal.
• Operates foreign offices in London, Dubai, Moscow to promote exports.

14. Coffee

Context: India's coffee exports surge by 55%, driven by rising global demand.

Major Species

• Coffee arabica (Arabica): Mild flavor, high quality; 60–70% of global production.
• Coffee canephora (Robusta): Hardier, more disease-resistant; stronger, more bitter taste.
• Monsooned Coffee: Unique to India, processed by exposing beans to monsoon winds.

Comparison of Arabica and Robusta

• Arabica: Deep, friable, rich in organic matter, acidic (pH 6.0-6.5); Gentle to moderate slope; 1000-1500 m elevation; 15-25°C; 70-80% RH; 1600-2500 mm rainfall.
• Robusta: Same soil; Gentle slopes to leveled fields; 500-1000 m elevation; 20-30°C; 80-90% RH; 1000-2000 mm rainfall.

Production in India

• India produces both Arabica and Robusta; Robusta accounts for over 60%.
• Major States: Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

About Coffee Board of India

• Statutory organization under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Established by the Coffee Act of 1942.
• Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka.

15. Rubber

Context: India is experiencing a severe natural rubber shortage, leading to soaring prices.

Growth Conditions

• Temperature: Hot, humid climate with 25°C to 35°C (80% relative humidity). June-July optimum for cultivation.
• Rainfall: 200-450 cm rainfall with year-round distribution.
• Soil: Deep and lateritic fertile soil with acidic pH 4.5 to 6.0.

Production

• Plantations concentrated in Kerala, Tripura, Karnataka, Assam, Tamil Nadu.
• India ranks as the third-largest producer, fourth-largest consumer of natural rubber.

About Rubber Board of India

• Statutory organization under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Established in 1947 under the Rubber Act, 1947.
• Headquarters: Kottayam, Kerala.

16. Oilseeds

Groundnut

• Most significant oilseed in India, contributing nearly half of total oilseed production.
• Contains 40-50% oil, used in cooking, margarine, soap production.
• Temperature: 20°C-30°C; Soil: Sandy loam, red, yellow, black cotton soils.
• Rainfall: Requires 500-700 mm for rainfed crop.
• India is the second-largest producer globally, after China.
• Major producers: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh.

Sesamum

• Known as "Til" in India; high oil content (45-50%).
• Temperature: 25-30°C; Rainfall: 50-100 cm.
• Season: Kharif in arid and semi-arid tropics; Rabi/Summer in cooler areas.
• Major States: West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu.

Rapeseed and Mustard

• Among the most important oilseed crops in India.
• Grown primarily as a Rabi (winter) crop (October-November sowing, February-March harvesting).
• Temperature: Cool (10-25°C); Soil: Sandy loam to clay loam.
• India is the world's third-largest producer, after Canada and China.
• Major States: Rajasthan, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal.

Sunflower

• Short-duration (90-100 days), drought-resistant.
• Soil: Well-drained sandy loam or black soil; pH 6.0-7.5.
• Temperature: 18-25°C.
• Russia and Ukraine dominate global sunflower production (>50%).
• Major States: Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu.

Key Points about Oilseeds:

• India — 4th largest oilseeds producer; 20.8% of global area, 10% of global production
• Groundnut, Soybean, Sunflower, Sesamum, Niger seed, Mustard, Safflower
• Despite largest area (18-20% of net sown area), India faces chronic shortages
• Yellow Revolution launched to boost oilseed productivity

17. Spices

Black Pepper

• Known as the "King of Spices"; one of India's highest-earning export spices.
• Temperature: 23-32°C (ideal 28°C); Rainfall: 125-200 cm.
• Soil: Deep, friable, well-drained loamy soils; red laterite soils.
• India is the third-largest producer globally, after Vietnam.
• 94% of cultivation concentrated in Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Assam.

Cardamom

• Referred to as the "Queen of Aromatic Spices".
• Temperature: 10-35°C; Rainfall: 150-400 cm.
• Soil: Well-drained forest loams, red soils, laterites; pH 5.0-6.5.
• India is the world's second-largest producer after Guatemala.
• Major States: Kerala (60%), Karnataka (31%), Tamil Nadu (9%).

Chillies

• Native to Americas, introduced by Portuguese in late 15th century.
• Temperature: 10-30°C; Rainfall: 60-125 cm.
• Soil: Black soils best suited; pH 6.0-7.0.
• India is the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of chillies globally.
• Major States: Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Odisha.

Ginger

• Originated in Southeast Asia (Indian subcontinent and southern China).
• Rich in gingerol; good source of vitamins B6, C, calcium, iron, magnesium.
• Temperature: 19-28°C; Rainfall: 125-250 cm.
• Soil: Sandy loam, clay loam, red loam or lateritic loam; pH 6.0-6.5.
• India is the largest producer globally, contributing nearly 35%.
• Major States: Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim.

Key Points about Spices:

• India — largest producer, consumer, and exporter of spices globally
• Grows about 75 out of 109 spice varieties recognized by ISO
• Chilli, cumin, turmeric, ginger, coriander make up 76% of total production
• Major states: Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Assam, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala

18. Summary: Major Crops at a Glance

Crop	Season	Temperature	Rainfall	Top States
Jute	Kharif	15-35°C	250 cm	West Bengal (75%), Assam, Bihar
Cotton	Kharif/Rabi	21-32°C	70-120 cm	Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana
Sugarcane	Long-duration	21-27°C	75-150 cm	UP, Maharashtra, Karnataka
Tea	Perennial	13-32°C	150-300 cm	Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu
Coffee	Perennial	15-30°C	1000-2500 mm	Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu
Rubber	Perennial	25-35°C	200-450 cm	Kerala, Tripura, Karnataka
Groundnut	Kharif	20-30°C	500-700 mm	Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu
Onion	Rabi/Kharif	13-25°C	65-75 cm	Maharashtra, MP, Gujarat
Mango	Perennial	20-30°C	75-375 cm	UP, AP, Karnataka, Bihar

Key Takeaways for UPSC

• Jute: "Golden fiber"; Kharif; West Bengal accounts for 75%; India largest producer
• Cotton: India grows all 4 species; 23% global production; CCI (Miniratna)
• Sugarcane: FRP based on sugar recovery; Rs 340/quintal for 2024-25
• Tea: India 2nd largest producer; Tea Board established 1954
• Coffee: Robusta accounts for 60%; Coffee Board established 1942
• Oilseeds: India 4th largest producer; Yellow Revolution
• Spices: India largest producer, consumer, exporter; 75 of 109 ISO varieties

High-Yield Interactive UPSC Quiz (Major Crops — Part II)

Q1. Which crop is known as the "Golden fiber"?

Correct Answer: B. Jute is often referred to as the "Golden fiber" due to its color and high economic value. India is the world's largest producer of raw jute.

Q2. Which state accounts for over 75% of India's jute production?

Correct Answer: C. West Bengal accounts for over 75% of India's jute production, making it the largest jute-producing state in the country.

Q3. India is the only country that grows all four species of which crop?

Correct Answer: B. India is the only country which grows all four species of cotton: G. Arboreum & G. Herbaceum (Asian cotton), G. Barbadense (Egyptian cotton), and G. Hirsutum (American Upland cotton).

Q4. The Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) is a:

Correct Answer: B. The Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) is a Miniratna company established in 1970 under the administrative control of the Ministry of Textiles.

Q5. FRP for sugarcane is based on:

Correct Answer: B. FRP (Fair and Remunerative Price) for sugarcane is based on sugar recovery from the cane. For the sugar season 2024-25, FRP is Rs 340/quintal at a recovery of 10.25%.

Q6. The Tea Board of India is headquartered in:

Correct Answer: C. The Tea Board of India is headquartered in Kolkata, West Bengal. It was constituted on 1st April 1954 under the Tea Act of 1953.

Q7. Which spice is known as the "Queen of Aromatic Spices"?

Correct Answer: B. Cardamom is often referred to as the "Queen of Aromatic Spices". It is highly valued for its use in medicine and flavoring. India is the world's second-largest producer of Cardamom after Guatemala.

Q8. Which country is the largest producer of ginger globally?

Correct Answer: B. India is the largest producer of ginger globally, contributing nearly 35% of global production. Major ginger-producing states include Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, and Sikkim.

Q9. Operation Greens was expanded from TOP crops to:

Correct Answer: C. Operation Greens was expanded from TOP (Tomato, Onion, Potato) crops to TOTAL — all fruits and vegetables. It aims to boost production and supply of perishable agricultural commodities.

Q10. The National Horticulture Board was established in:

Correct Answer: C. The National Horticulture Board (NHB) was established in 1984. It is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, headquartered in Gurugram, Haryana.