Kamal Nath Raises Alarm: Wheat Procurement in MP Fails to Ensure Farmers Get MSP
Synopsis
As wheat procurement accelerates in Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath expresses alarm over farmers not receiving the Minimum Support Price (MSP). His concerns highlight systemic flaws that force farmers to sell below MSP, undermining the procurement process.
Key Takeaways
Kamal Nath raises issues about farmers not receiving Minimum Support Price (MSP) .
Procurement started on April 9 for the 2026-27 marketing season.
Farmers are compelled to sell wheat below the announced MSP.
Systemic flaws in procurement processes need addressing.
State government urged to enforce MSP regulations strictly.
Bhopal, April 13 (NationPress) As the wheat procurement process accelerates in Madhya Pradesh, senior Congress figure and former Chief Minister Kamal Nath has voiced serious concerns regarding farmers reportedly not receiving the Minimum Support Price (MSP). He has questioned the efficiency of the procurement system in practice.
The state government initiated procurement for the 2026-27 marketing season on April 9 across significant divisions, including Indore, Ujjain, Bhopal, and Narmadapuram, following pressure from opposition parties and farmer organizations.
Official reports indicate that over 22,500 metric tonnes of wheat have been procured from more than 5,000 farmers since the commencement. Additional divisions are set to commence operations starting April 15.
In this context, Kamal Nath highlighted that, despite the MSP for wheat being set at Rs 2,625 per quintal, farmers are frequently finding themselves compelled to sell at lower rates in mandis, ranging from Rs 2,200 to Rs 2,400.
“While procurement is officially underway and MSP has been declared, farmers are not actually receiving that price. This unveils the stark reality of the system,” Kamal Nath remarked in a statement on Monday.
The experienced Congress leader accused procedural challenges at procurement centers, such as delays, extended waiting times, and restricted purchasing capabilities, of driving farmers towards open market sales.
“Farmers arrive at procurement centers in hopes of obtaining MSP, but due to mismanagement, they are forced to sell at significantly lower prices outside,” he asserted.
He also mentioned that traders often initiate bids below the MSP, citing quality-related concerns. “There are explicit regulations prohibiting bidding below MSP, yet violations are commonplace. This illustrates a lack of oversight and accountability,” Kamal Nath stated.
He urged the state government to strictly implement MSP regulations and enhance procurement practices. “If the system fails to ensure MSP at the grassroots level, it undermines the very purpose of procurement,” he emphasized.
These comments come as wheat arrivals are anticipated to increase further, with procurement operations expected to expand statewide in the upcoming days.
Point of View
Emphasizing the need for effective governance and accountability.
NationPress
3 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Minimum Support Price (MSP)?
The Minimum Support Price (MSP) is the price at which the government purchases crops directly from farmers, ensuring a minimum profit margin.
Why are farmers not receiving the MSP?
Farmers are reportedly selling their wheat at lower prices due to procedural delays, mismanagement, and traders starting bids below the MSP.
When did the wheat procurement begin in MP?
Wheat procurement in Madhya Pradesh commenced on April 9 for the 2026-27 marketing season.
What are the main divisions involved in this procurement?
Key divisions for the procurement include Indore, Ujjain, Bhopal, and Narmadapuram.
How much wheat has been procured so far?
Over 22,500 metric tonnes of wheat have been procured from more than 5,000 farmers since the launch.
