In a significant move to support farmers, the Haryana government has announced the early start of government procurement of paddy at Minimum Support Price (MSP). Procurement, originally scheduled for October 1, has now commenced from September 22. Chief Minister Naib Singh Saini emphasized that the government is fully committed to protecting farmers’ interests and ensuring that no farmer faces any difficulties during the process.
Agriculture Minister Shyam Singh Rana stated that due to continuous rainfall and increasing risks of field fires, the decision to start paddy procurement early was taken. The Chief Minister highlighted that opposition claims regarding the termination of MSP are misleading. In reality, the MSP for common paddy has risen from ₹1,360 per quintal in 2014 to ₹2,369 per quintal today, while Grade-A paddy has increased from ₹1,400 to ₹2,389 per quintal.
Addressing concerns over stubble burning, the Agriculture Minister confirmed that farmers will receive ₹1,200 as subsidy for effective stubble management. He added that burning stubble contributes to pollution, but with increased awareness among farmers, this season is expected to see a significant reduction in stubble burning incidents.
Minister Rana further assured that all necessary arrangements in mandis have been completed to facilitate smooth procurement. Responding to farmers’ requests, the early procurement initiative ensures that no farmer faces inconvenience while selling their crop.
The Minister also emphasized the government’s push for natural farming to improve public health and reduce diseases caused by excessive chemical fertilizer use. Additionally, agricultural scientists have been urged to develop flood- and drought-resistant crop varieties to help farmers cope with adverse weather conditions, ensuring sustainable agricultural productivity and resilience.
