NEW DELHI — Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan has sanctioned a major financial package to safeguard farmers in Karnataka and Maharashtra from distress sales. The combined decisions provide over ₹4,886 crore in support through the Minimum Support Price (MSP) mechanism.
Key Procurement Approvals:
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Karnataka (Sunflower): The Centre has approved the procurement of 9,023 metric tonnes of sunflower for the Rabi 2026 season, valued at over ₹69.66 crore.
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Maharashtra (Gram): The procurement limit for gram has been significantly increased to 8.19 lakh metric tonnes, worth over ₹4,816.80 crore.
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Deadline Extension: The procurement window for Maharashtra’s gram producers has been extended by 30 days, now closing on May 29, 2026.
Strengthening the Agri-Economy
Minister Chouhan emphasized that these measures are designed to provide price stability and protect farmers from unfavorable market fluctuations. By increasing limits and extending timelines, the Ministry aims to ensure that no farmer is forced into a disadvantageous sale.
These steps reflect the government’s ongoing commitment to making agricultural procurement more transparent and farmer-centric, ensuring long-term sustainability and income security for the rural sector.
