Haryana Becomes the First State to Procure All Crops at MSP

Haryana Becomes the First State to Procure All Crops at MSP

In a historic move, Haryana has become the first state in India to procure all crops at the Minimum Support Price (MSP). Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced this groundbreaking decision on August 4, 2024, during the Vijay Shankhnad rally in Kurukshetra. This initiative aims to provide financial stability to farmers and promote agricultural diversification in the state.

Key Details of the Announcement

Previously, Haryana procured 14 crops at MSP, including wheat, paddy, mustard, and cotton. With the new policy, the state has added 10 more crops to the MSP list, such as ragi, soybean, nigerseed, safflower, barley, maize, jowar, jute, khopra, and summer moong. This brings the total number of crops procured at MSP to 24​.

Benefits to Farmers

The state government has also waived Rs. 133 crores in outstanding canal water irrigation charges, benefiting farmers by approximately Rs. 54 crores annually. Additionally, the government announced the payment of Rs. 137 crores in pending compensation to farmers affected by natural calamities in Rohtak, Nuh, Fatehabad, and Sirsa before 2023​.

Political and Economic Implications

This decision is seen as a strategic move by the BJP-led government to gain favor with farmers ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. The BJP is aiming to secure a third consecutive term in the state after facing setbacks in the recent Lok Sabha elections, where it lost five out of ten seats to the Congress-led INDIA bloc. By extending MSP to all crops, the government hopes to stabilize market prices and ensure a steady income for farmers, addressing longstanding demands from the agricultural community​.

Broader Impact

Haryana's initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the agricultural sector, encouraging crop diversification and potentially setting a precedent for other states to follow. This comprehensive procurement policy underscores the government's commitment to supporting farmers and enhancing the agricultural economy of Haryana.