Digvijaya Singh writes to MP CM Yadav over wheat procurement, fertiliser crisis in Narmadapuram
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Rajya Sabha MP and former Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh has written to Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, demanding urgent government action on wheat procurement failures, a fertiliser shortage, and confusion over moong procurement affecting farmers in Narmadapuram district. The intervention follows a detailed letter from former Congress district president Pushparaj Singh, who flagged mounting distress among the farming community during the peak harvesting season.
Wheat Procurement Crisis
At the centre of the grievances is the abrupt suspension of slot bookings for wheat procurement at the Minimum Support Price (MSP). The sudden halt has left a large number of farmers unable to sell their produce, deepening financial stress at a time when they most need assured returns. Digvijaya Singh has called on the state government to immediately restore the slot booking system and extend the procurement window so that every farmer receives fair compensation.
Fertiliser Shortage Crippling Paddy Farmers
Farmers in Narmadapuram are also grappling with an acute shortage of fertilisers critical for paddy cultivation. The e-token server used to access fertiliser stocks has reportedly been offline for extended periods, making it nearly impossible for cultivators to obtain essential inputs. With approximately three lakh farmers in the district dependent on just six fertiliser depots, the supply chain has effectively broken down. Digvijaya Singh demanded immediate availability of DAP fertiliser and, in the event of continued unavailability, suggested NPK 12:32:16 as a stopgap alternative to prevent damage to standing crops.
Moong Procurement Policy Leaves Farmers in Limbo
A separate source of anxiety is the government's announcement that it will procure only 25 per cent of the total moong yield. Farmers remain unclear about what will happen to the remaining produce. Digvijaya Singh pressed for a clear and comprehensive procurement policy covering the number of collection centres, availability of gunny bags, and logistical arrangements — particularly given the challenges that the approaching monsoon season will bring to storage and transportation.
Political and Community Response
The issues raised have triggered discussions among farmer groups across Narmadapuram, who are hoping that pressure from senior Congress leaders will compel the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led state administration to act decisively. Digvijaya Singh emphasised that the government must demonstrate genuine commitment to resolving these grievances and provide prompt relief to a farming community that forms the backbone of Madhya Pradesh's economy. The state government is yet to respond publicly to the letter.