Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated that agriculture production in the country has risen by almost 44% in the last decade, leading to a doubling of many farmers’ incomes. The Central Government has initiated a comprehensive drive to boost farmers’ productivity and earnings through significant procurement at Minimum Support Price, as mentioned by the minister in the Lok Sabha.
Chouhan emphasized initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Annadatta Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM‑AASHA), the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, price difference payment, and Market Intervention Scheme, which offer a robust safety net for farmers, according to the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. The government now ensures a 50% profit over production cost in setting Minimum Support Prices, consistently benefiting farmers with improved returns.
The minister criticized past administrations, highlighting the importance of actual procurement at the announced MSP rather than mere declarations. Noteworthy is the government’s direct support to farmers through unprecedented MSP purchases, covering a wide range of crops beyond wheat, paddy, pulses, and oilseeds, as per the official statement.
Chouhan detailed the significance of the Pradhan Mantri Annadatta Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan – PM-AASHA scheme in safeguarding crops vulnerable to prices dipping below MSP levels. This scheme encompasses three key components: direct purchase of pulses and oilseeds through Price Support Scheme, bridging MSP-market price gaps via payment mechanisms, and offering additional safeguards to farmers when necessary.
The minister highlighted Maharashtra’s effective utilization of the Centre’s digital system-supported policy post recent natural disasters, swiftly transferring Rs 14,000 crore to farmers’ accounts within five days through Farmer ID for prompt relief. The Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) plays a crucial role by establishing standard rates for perishable fruits and vegetables, either through direct purchase or by compensating farmers for price differentials, ensuring their financial security.
