The wheat procurement at the minimum support price (MSP) in Madhya Pradesh for the Rabi Marketing Year 2026–27, initially set to start on April 1, has been rescheduled. The government’s new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has postponed the procurement process in Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, and Narmadapuram divisions to begin from April 10.
Moreover, the procurement of wheat crops in Jabalpur, Gwalior, Rewa, Shahdol, Chambal, and Sagar divisions, previously planned for April 7, will now commence a week later on April 15. This rescheduling marks the second time the state government has adjusted the procurement dates, with the initial start date moved from March 16 to April 1.
Criticism has arisen from the Congress towards the BJP-led Madhya Pradesh government for the repeated rescheduling of the wheat procurement process. Former Union Minister Arun Yadav expressed disappointment, highlighting the challenges faced by farmers due to the changing dates, while State Congress president Jitu Patwari raised concerns over the unavailability of jute gunny bags, essential for systematic procurement, resulting in delays.
The delay in procurement has led some farmers to sell their crops below the MSP, affecting their income. The procurement of wheat in Madhya Pradesh is set at Rs 2,625 per quintal, with an additional bonus of Rs 40 per quintal for farmers. Over 19,04,651 farmers have registered for wheat procurement at the MSP during the Rabi Marketing Season 2026–27.
