New Delhi: Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced major crop procurement relief measures to support farmers across Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.
According to the minister, these decisions aim to ensure farmers receive fair prices and avoid distress sales during market fluctuations. Moreover, the approvals followed consultations with state governments and senior officials, reflecting a coordinated approach.
Crop procurement relief to stabilise farmer incomes
In Uttar Pradesh, the Centre has approved procurement of 20 lakh metric tonnes of potatoes under the Market Intervention Scheme for the 2025–26 season. Notably, authorities fixed the procurement price at ₹6,500.9 per metric tonne, with central support estimated at ₹203.15 crore. As a result, the move is expected to protect farmers from falling prices and stabilise the potato market.
Meanwhile, in Andhra Pradesh, the government increased the procurement limit for chana under the Price Support Scheme. Initially, the cap stood at 94,500 metric tonnes; however, it has now been raised to 1,13,250 metric tonnes. Consequently, this expansion will help Bengal gram farmers secure better returns and reduce financial stress.
Similarly, in Karnataka, the Centre extended the procurement window for tur (pigeon pea) by 30 days. Therefore, farmers can now sell their produce at the Minimum Support Price until May 15, 2026. This extension provides additional time for farmers to benefit from assured pricing.
Furthermore, the minister said the government remains committed to farmer welfare under the leadership of Narendra Modi. He added that the Centre continues to work closely with states to respond quickly to agricultural challenges.
Importantly, he emphasised that these steps will strengthen the rural economy, improve price stability, and build confidence among farmers. In addition, timely interventions help create a more predictable agricultural market.
Overall, officials said the decisions reflect a broader strategy to safeguard farmer incomes while ensuring a steady supply of essential commodities. Ultimately, the Centre expects these measures to boost agricultural sustainability and support long-term growth in the sector.
केंद्र सरकार ने किसानों के हित में एक महत्वपूर्ण और राहतभरा निर्णय लेते हुए उत्तर प्रदेश में आलू की खरीद, आंध्र प्रदेश में चना खरीद तथा कर्नाटक में तूर (अरहर) खरीद अवधि विस्तार को मंजूरी दी है। pic.twitter.com/4lg4H2pt0p
— PIB Agriculture (@PIBAgriculture) April 18, 2026
