In a significant move to support farmers, the Uttar Pradesh government has approved a ₹160 per quintal increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for wheat. Wheat procurement across the state will now be carried out from March 25 to June 15, 2026, offering direct benefits to lakhs of farmers.
During the cabinet meeting, a total of 37 proposals were presented, out of which 35 were approved while two were kept on hold. Cabinet Minister Suresh Khanna and Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi jointly briefed the media about the key decisions.
For the current season, the MSP for wheat has been fixed at ₹2585 per quintal, marking an increase of ₹160 compared to last year. This hike aims to improve farmers’ income and ensure better price realization for their produce.
The government will set up around 6,500 procurement centres across all 75 districts of Uttar Pradesh. Wheat procurement will be carried out through eight major agencies, including FCI, Mandi Parishad, PCF, PCU, UPSS, NAFED, and NCCF. Centres will remain operational from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with flexibility for district authorities to adjust timings based on local conditions.
For the 2026–27 rabi marketing season, the procurement process has been made fully digital. Wheat will be purchased using electronic Point of Purchase (e-PoP) devices with biometric authentication of farmers. Mobile procurement units will also capture geo-location data for every transaction, ensuring transparency and accountability.
In a farmer-friendly step, sharecroppers (bataidars) will also be eligible to sell wheat after registration. Additionally, registered trusts can participate in procurement. Payments to trusts will be processed after biometric verification of authorized representatives.
Payment within 48 Hours via DBT:
The government has directed that payments for procured wheat be made within 48 hours directly into farmers’ bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. This will eliminate middlemen and make the process faster and more transparent.
₹20 per Quintal Extra Support:
Farmers will receive an additional ₹20 per quintal to cover costs related to handling, cleaning, and loading. This incentive is expected to ease operational expenses and improve net returns.
Procurement Target Raised to 50 Lakh Metric Tonnes:
The state has increased its wheat procurement target to 50 lakh metric tonnes, up from the earlier target of 30 lakh metric tonnes. This reflects the government’s intent to maximize farmer participation and procurement coverage.
Strong Production Outlook and Rising Registrations:
This year, wheat has been sown across nearly 95 lakh hectares in the state, with an estimated production of around 425 lakh tonnes. So far, close to 2 lakh farmers have completed their registration, indicating strong participation and optimism around the procurement process.
FAQs:
Q1. What is the new wheat MSP in Uttar Pradesh?
The wheat MSP has been increased to ₹2585 per quintal.
Q2. When will wheat procurement start in 2026?
Wheat procurement will begin on March 25 and continue till June 15, 2026.
Q3. How will farmers receive payment?
Payments will be made within 48 hours via the DBT system directly into bank accounts.
Q4. Who can sell wheat at procurement centres?
Farmers, sharecroppers (bataidars), and registered trusts can sell wheat after registration.
Q5. Is there any additional benefit apart from MSP?
Yes, farmers will get ₹20 per quintal extra for handling and transportation costs.
