Haryana Government Expands Crop Procurement List to 24 with Minimum Support Price

The Haryana government has expanded its list of crops eligible for procurement at the minimum support price (MSP) to 24. Previously, only 14 crops were covered under this scheme. This decision, approved by the state cabinet led by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, was announced on August 5, ahead of the October assembly elections.

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The recent notification, dated December 19, outlines the inclusion of additional crops such as ragi, soybean, nigerseed, safflower, barley, maize, jowar, jute, copra, and summer moong. These are in addition to the existing crops like paddy, bajra, kharif moong, urd, arhar, wheat, and mustard. This move is part of the government's broader strategy to support farmers.

Farmers' Welfare Measures

During the campaign for the October 5 Haryana assembly elections, the ruling BJP highlighted the MSP decision as a key measure for farmers' welfare. On December 13, Chief Minister Saini stated that his government was ensuring MSP for all crops grown by Haryana's farmers. He challenged Punjab's government to implement similar measures.

Chief Minister Saini also addressed ongoing farmer protests. He urged the AAP government in Punjab to engage with farmers to resolve their issues. His comments came amid protests led by Samyukta Kisan Morcha Non-Political and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha at border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13.

Protests and Demands

Farmers have been protesting at Shambhu and Khanauri border points after being stopped from marching to Delhi. A group of 101 farmers attempted to enter Delhi on foot three times between December 6 and 14 but were halted by security in Haryana.

Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a prominent farmer leader from Punjab aged 70, has been on a hunger strike at Khanauri border point. His protest aims to press the Centre for a legal guarantee of MSP on crops. As of Sunday, his fast had reached its 27th day.

The government's decision to extend MSP coverage reflects its commitment to addressing farmers' concerns. By increasing the number of crops eligible for MSP, it aims to provide more financial security to farmers in Haryana.