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The government aims to boost farmer incomes with higher paddy and coarse grains procurement targets at increased MSP rates.
The central government has set an ambitious target for paddy procurement in the upcoming Kharif marketing season 2024-25. With Kharif crop sowing nearing completion in several states, preparations are underway for a significant increase in paddy purchases at the Minimum Support Price (MSP). The target for paddy procurement has been set at 485 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) for the central pool, which is higher than last year’s target of 463 LMT.
This increased target means more farmers will be able to sell their paddy at the assured MSP, leading to a greater financial benefit. The move aims to stabilize farmer income and ensure fair market prices for paddy growers across the country.
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In addition to paddy, the central government has also set a target for procuring coarse grains, with the focus on promoting crop diversification and nutritional crops like millets. For the Kharif season 2024-25, the target for coarse grain procurement is 19 lakh metric tonnes, a significant jump from the 6.60 lakh metric tonnes procured during the previous marketing year.
The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution has discussed these targets in detail with the food secretaries of various states. This increased procurement of coarse grains is in response to growing demand, spurred by the International Year of Millets.
The Minimum Support Price (MSP) for various Kharif crops has been set by the central government for the 2024-25 season. This MSP assures farmers a fair price for their crops and encourages sustainable agriculture practices. Here are the MSP rates for key Kharif crops:
These rates reflect the government’s efforts to support the farming community, ensuring that their produce is sold at profitable rates.
The total area sown for paddy this year has reached 394.28 lakh hectares as of August 23, 2024, which is 16.25 lakh hectares more than last year. The bumper sowing indicates a strong yield this season. For coarse grains, the sown area has increased to 185.51 lakh hectares, up by 8.02 lakh hectares from the same period last year.
This rise in sowing, particularly for coarse grains, can be attributed to the increased awareness generated by the International Year of Millets and the government’s focus on promoting nutritious and sustainable crop cultivation.
The central government’s decision to increase paddy and coarse grain procurement targets underscores its commitment to farmer welfare. By setting higher MSP rates and expanding procurement, the government is ensuring that more farmers benefit from stable market prices and improved earnings. This strategy aims to boost agricultural growth and enhance food security across the nation.
The increase in procurement and MSP targets highlights the government's ongoing efforts to support India’s agricultural sector, ensuring farmers are well-equipped for a successful Kharif marketing season.
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The central government's increased procurement targets and higher MSP rates for paddy and coarse grains in the 2024-25 Kharif season aim to boost farmer incomes and promote crop diversification. This move reflects the government's commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector and ensuring fair prices for farmers across India.