Significant move aimed at safeguarding farmers’ incomes and protecting them from price volatility, the Central Government has approved key procurement decisions across three major states. Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has cleared proposals for the procurement of potatoes in Uttar Pradesh, chana in Andhra Pradesh, and an extension of tur (pigeon pea) procurement in Karnataka. These measures are designed to ensure that farmers receive fair and remunerative prices for their produce and are not forced into distress sales due to falling market rates.
The decision brings major relief to potato farmers in Uttar Pradesh. Under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) for the 2025–26 seasons, the government has approved procurement of 20 lakh metric tonnes of potatoes. The procurement price has been fixed at ₹6,500.90 per metric tonne, with the Centre expected to contribute around ₹203.15 crore towards the initiative. This step will help stabilize potato prices in the market while ensuring farmers get a fair return for their produce.
Andhra Pradesh, the government has increased the procurement limit of chana (Bengal gram) under the Price Support Scheme (PSS). Initially capped at 94,500 metric tonnes, the limit has now been enhanced to 1,13,250 metric tonnes. This revision will enable more farmers to sell their produce at the Minimum Support Price (MSP), protecting them from price crashes and ensuring better income security.
Tur (arhar) farmers in Karnataka have also received a boost, as the government has extended the procurement period by 30 days. The MSP-based procurement will now continue until May 15, 2026. This extension gives farmers additional time to bring their produce to procurement centres and benefit from assured pricing, reducing the risk of selling at lower market rates.
Direct Benefits for Farmers and Market Stability:
These decisions are expected to benefit lakhs of farmers across the three states. Beyond improving farmer incomes, the measures will also contribute to stabilizing agricultural markets. Overall, the government’s intervention reflects a strong commitment to farmer welfare and aims to make agriculture more sustainable and profitable in the long run.
FAQs:
1. What is the purpose of government procurement?
Government procurement ensures farmers get fair prices and are protected from market fluctuations.
2. What is the potato procurement price in Uttar Pradesh?
The government has fixed ₹6,500.90 per metric tonne for potato procurement.
3. How much chana procurement is approved in Andhra Pradesh?
The limit has been increased to 1,13,250 metric tonnes.
4. Till when is tur procurement extended in Karnataka?
Tur procurement is extended until May 15, 2026.
5. How will these decisions help farmers?
These measures improve farmer income, reduce distress sales, and stabilize agricultural markets.
