Why is Former CM Kamal Nath Criticizing the BJP Government Over Soyabean Procurement in MP?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Kamal Nath demands timely submission of soyabean procurement proposals.
- Delayed proposals can lead to financial losses for farmers.
- The state government has a history of timely submissions that is not being followed this year.
- Current market prices are below the MSP set by the Central government.
- Farmers face multiple challenges, including fertilizer availability and crop sales.
Bhopal, Sep 23 (NationPress) Former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath, criticized the state government on Tuesday for failing to submit a required proposal to the Union government regarding the procurement of this year's soyabean crop.
Nath, who represents the Chhindwara constituency, expressed concerns that the delay in the procurement process could have negative repercussions for the state's farmers.
The Congress leader pointed out that historically, the state government has sent its proposals to the Centre by the last week of September.
Referring to the year 2024, Nath noted that farmer registrations in Madhya Pradesh commenced on September 25, and procurement began on October 25.
He accused the BJP-led state government of neglecting farmers' issues.
Nath articulated that farmers face challenges at every turn—first in acquiring sufficient fertilizers during sowing, and then in the sale of their crops.
"It is evident that the BJP administration is intentionally postponing the proposal submission to burden farmers. This delay will push soyabean procurement at the Maximum Support Price (MSP) to a later date, forcing farmers to sell their crop to middlemen at reduced prices," Nath stated.
He further claimed that the lackadaisical approach of the state government has led to significant hardships for farmers in Madhya Pradesh, who are not receiving fair prices for their produce.
Currently, the market price for soyabean stands at Rs 4,500 per quintal, while the Central government has set the MSP at Rs 5,328 per quintal.
Nath alleged that the state government has employed similar tactics concerning the procurement of moong.
He remarked, "The government took a long time to send the moong procurement proposal, followed by rumors that the procured moong was toxic."
He noted that it was only after the Congress and farmers organized a substantial protest that the state government began the procurement process for moong.
"I urge the Madhya Pradesh government to timely submit the soyabean procurement proposal to the Centre and guarantee that farmers receive a fair price for their harvest," he added.
Known as the 'Soyabean State of India,' Madhya Pradesh has reshaped its agricultural landscape through soybean farming, with the crop earning nicknames such as 'Yellow Gold' and the 'Golden Bean of the 21st Century.'
Beyond its economic benefits, soyabean has significantly improved the state's soil health due to its natural nitrogen-fixing capabilities, enhancing fertility and reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers.
More than just an agricultural product, soyabean has become a cornerstone of the state's economic revitalization, playing a crucial role in livelihoods and industrial development.