Is Siddaramaiah Raising Concerns for Bengal Gram Farmers with PM Modi?
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Synopsis
Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has urgently called upon PM Modi to address the crisis faced by Bengal gram farmers in the state. This appeal highlights the alarming drop in market prices compared to the declared Minimum Support Price, pushing farmers towards distress sales. The situation demands immediate government intervention to stabilize the agricultural landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Siddaramaiah's letter emphasizes the urgent need for government intervention.
- Bengal gram farmers are experiencing severe distress due to falling market prices.
- The situation threatens the livelihoods of many agricultural workers.
- Immediate action under the Price Support Scheme is essential.
- Trust in institutional support is critical for farmer welfare.
Bengaluru, Jan 14 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah, has addressed a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, bringing to light the critical challenges faced by Bengal gram farmers in Karnataka and requesting the Centre's urgent intervention.
In a post on social media platform X, CM Siddaramaiah expressed, "I have reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, emphasizing the dire situation confronting Bengal gram farmers in Karnataka. Despite a Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Rs 5,875 per quintal, the market prices have plummeted below this level, compelling farmers into distress sales."
He continued, "I have urged the Centre to promptly initiate procurement under the Price Support Scheme (PSS) to safeguard farmers’ incomes and stabilize the market."
The letter elaborated, "I am writing at a time of profound distress for countless Bengal gram (chana) growers in Karnataka, whose livelihoods are under severe threat during the current Rabi Marketing season."
Bengal gram stands as a significant pulse crop in Karnataka, cultivated over 9.24 lakh hectares with an estimated yield of 6.27 lakh metric tonnes. It supports farmers across regions including Dharwad, Gadag, Belagavi, Vijayapura, Kalaburagi, Yadgir, Bidar, Raichur, Koppal, Ballari, Chitradurga, Bagalkot, Davanagere, and Chikkamagaluru. For many small and marginal farmers, the harvest of Bengal gram is their only source of income after enduring months of labor under unpredictable weather conditions.
"However, I must bring your immediate attention to the alarming market conditions in the state. Even though the Government of India has set an MSP of Rs 5,875 per quintal for Bengal gram for the Rabi Marketing Season 2026-27, the current market rates in major APMCs across Karnataka are considerably lower than MSP, prior to the peak arrival period. As harvesting intensifies between January and March, there is a legitimate fear of further price drops, worsening rural distress," the letter stated.
This price decline is not just a market anomaly; it is a humanitarian crisis. When the declared MSP fails to convert into actual procurement, it diminishes farmers' trust in the support systems designed to aid them. Numerous growers, already burdened by input costs, debts, and family needs, are being forced into distress sales just when public assistance is most critical.
The letter has also been dispatched to Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
Point of View
This highlights a critical agricultural crisis requiring immediate attention. The plight of Bengal gram farmers underscores the broader challenges facing the agricultural sector in India. It is crucial for the government to act decisively in order to restore faith among farmers and ensure their livelihoods are protected.
NationPress
14/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Minimum Support Price for Bengal gram?
The Minimum Support Price for Bengal gram has been set at Rs 5,875 per quintal.
Why are Bengal gram farmers in distress?
Farmers are facing distress due to market prices falling significantly below the Minimum Support Price, forcing them into distress sales.
Which regions are most affected by this crisis?
The crisis impacts farmers across regions such as Dharwad, Gadag, Belagavi, and several others in Karnataka.
What has CM Siddaramaiah requested from the Centre?
CM Siddaramaiah has urged the Centre to initiate procurement under the Price Support Scheme to protect farmers' incomes.
What is the significance of Bengal gram for Karnataka farmers?
Bengal gram is a principal pulse crop in Karnataka, providing the sole source of income for many small and marginal farmers.
