MSP support approved for sunflower and gram procurement worth ₹4,886 crore
New Delhi: Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan approved MSP support measures for sunflower and gram procurement to ensure fair prices for farmers and prevent distress sales.
The Centre cleared procurement of 9,023 metric tonnes of sunflower in Karnataka for the Rabi 2026 season. Moreover, this decision carries an MSP value of over ₹69.66 crore. It aims to protect farmers from price fluctuations and market pressure.
At the same time, the government increased the procurement limit for gram in Maharashtra to 8,19,882 metric tonnes for the Rabi 2025–26 season. This move alone accounts for MSP support exceeding ₹4,816.80 crore.
MSP support expanded through procurement decisions
The Centre also extended the procurement period for gram in Maharashtra by 30 days. Therefore, farmers can now sell their produce until May 29, 2026. This extension is expected to help those who missed earlier deadlines.
Officials said these steps would reduce distress sales and stabilise farmer incomes. In addition, expanded procurement operations will ensure that more farmers benefit from MSP mechanisms.
The government stated that such measures would strengthen confidence in the procurement system. By ensuring timely purchases, it aims to create a stable agricultural market environment.
Furthermore, the decisions reflect the Centre’s focus on farmer welfare and income security. By increasing procurement limits and timelines, authorities seek to improve access to fair pricing.
The Ministry of Agriculture said MSP support remains a key tool to safeguard farmers against volatile market conditions. These approvals are expected to benefit producers in Karnataka and Maharashtra directly.
