Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini Welcomes Government's Increase in MSP for Kharif Crops

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini expressed approval for the Modi government's decision to raise the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for all mandated Kharif crops for the 2025-26 marketing season. Saini stated that this move aligns with the government's commitment to doubling farmers' income. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the agriculture ministry's proposal on MSP for the new Kharif season.

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MSP Increases for Key Crops

The Haryana government announced that the MSP for common paddy has risen from Rs 2,300 to Rs 2,369 per quintal, marking an 81% increase since 2013-14. A-grade paddy's MSP increased from Rs 2,320 to Rs 2,389 per quintal, a 78% rise compared to 2013-14. Moong dal's MSP went up from Rs 8,682 to Rs 8,768 per quintal, reflecting a 95% increase over the same period.

The MSP for bajra has been raised from Rs 2,625 to Rs 2,775 per quintal, which is a significant 122% increase compared to the year 2013-14. Ragi's MSP saw a substantial rise from Rs 4,290 to Rs 4,886 per quintal, representing a remarkable 226% increase since 2013-14. Similarly, maize's MSP increased from Rs 2,225 to Rs 2,400 per quintal, an 83% rise over the same period.

Political Reactions and Criticisms

Former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda criticised the MSP hike as insufficient. "This is like a drop in the ocean and not enough," Hooda remarked, citing inflation challenges faced by farmers. He noted that during Congress rule, paddy MSP increased by about 14-15% annually. Hooda claimed that under BJP rule, inflation has surged and essential costs have skyrocketed.

Hooda further alleged that farmers are burdened by rising costs in irrigation, labour, transport, fertiliser, seeds, and medicine. He argued that farmers are being forced into daily wage labour due to weather impacts and government negligence. Hooda urged the government to provide fair rates and subsidies while implementing the Swaminathan Commission's C2 formula for crop pricing.

Government's Commitment and Challenges

The Central Government has consistently announced MSPs for both Rabi and Kharif crops before sowing seasons in recent years. This allows farmers to choose more profitable crops. However, Hooda claimed that despite announcements of increased MSPs each season, farmers rarely receive these rates. He accused private agencies of exploiting farmers by offering prices below MSP.

Hooda emphasised that it is crucial for the government to offer fair rates and subsidies while freeing farmers from debt burdens. He criticised the current administration for treating MSP announcements as mere formalities without ensuring proper implementation or benefits for farmers.

The government's decision aims to provide farmers with better financial security through increased crop prices. However, political opposition highlights ongoing challenges such as inflation and inadequate support measures affecting agricultural communities across India.

With inputs from PTI