Central government has approved the procurement of gram (chana), lentil (masoor), and mustard at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for the Rabi marketing season 2026. The procurement will be carried out under the Price Support Scheme (PSS), ensuring that farmers are protected from market fluctuations and receive fair value for their produce.
As per the approved plan, the government will procure substantial quantities of these crops across the state. This includes 16,750 metric tonnes of gram, 32,000 metric tonnes of lentils, and 28,000 metric tonnes of mustard. The move is expected to directly benefit pulse and oilseed growers by providing assured market support.
State Agriculture Minister Ram Kripal Yadav described the decision as a crucial step toward securing better returns for farmers. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, the state government aims to safeguard farmers’ interests and prevent distress sales. MSP-based procurement will help ensure that farmers are not forced to sell their produce at lower prices during market downturns.
The state government is set to establish procurement centres across Bihar to ensure smooth implementation of the scheme. Efforts will be made to provide timely payments and maintain transparency throughout the process. The state has also expressed its gratitude to the central government for approving the proposal.
A key highlight of this decision is that, for the first time, lentils will be procured at MSP in Bihar. The National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Limited (NAFED) has been assigned the responsibility for this procurement. NAFED is preparing to procure around 32,000 metric tonnes of lentils at an MSP of ₹7,000 per quintal during the current Rabi season.
A Shift towards Crop Diversification:
Until now, MSP procurement in Bihar largely focused on paddy and wheat. With the inclusion of pulses and oilseeds, the move is expected to encourage crop diversification and improve farm incomes. It also marks an important step toward strengthening the agricultural economy of the state.
FAQs:
Q1. What is MSP procurement under PSS?
MSP procurement under PSS is a government system where crops are purchased at Minimum Support Price to protect farmers from market price drops.
Q2. Which crops are included in Rabi 2026 MSP procurement?
Gram (chana), lentil (masoor), and mustard are included in the MSP procurement plan.
Q3. What is the total procurement target for lentils?
The government plans to procure around 32,000 metric tonnes of lentils.
Q4. Which agency will handle lentil procurement?
NAFED will handle the procurement of lentils under MSP procurement.
Q5. How does MSP procurement benefit farmers?
It ensures fair pricing, prevents distress sales, and provides income stability to farmers.
