Is MP Government's Hesitant Stance on Moong Procurement Hurting Farmers?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Senior Congress leader Kamal Nath has raised alarms about the Madhya Pradesh government's failure to initiate moong procurement at MSP, claiming it harms farmers. As farmers face distress sales due to delays, the opposition demands immediate action from the BJP-led administration. Is the government neglecting its agricultural responsibilities?
Key Takeaways
- Kamal Nath criticizes the state government's evasive stance on moong procurement.
- Delays in procurement are forcing farmers to sell crops at distress prices.
- Government has not sent the necessary proposal to the Centre this year.
- The Bharatiya Kisan Sangh is advocating for immediate action.
- Last year, the state procured about 5.8 lakh tonnes of moong.
Bhopal, June 13 (NationPress) Senior Congress leader and former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on Friday condemned the BJP-led state government for its unreliable approach regarding the procurement of moong at the Minimum Support Price (MSP), claiming that the ongoing delays are adversely affecting farmers.
Nath pointed out that historically, the state government submits a proposal to the Centre annually for initiating moong procurement. Following the Centre's allocation of a quota, the state proceeds to purchase the crop at the MSP established by the Union government.
“This year, however, the state government has failed to send the proposal to the Centre. Additionally, no official rationale has been given for the procurement delays,” Nath remarked in a statement. He accused the government of negligence, asserting that it has compelled farmers to offload their moong crop at unfavorable prices in the open market.
“Such indifferent and harsh treatment towards our farmers is utterly unacceptable. The government must cease its delays and promptly initiate procurement at MSP,” he emphasized.
The Congress party has been vocal regarding this matter, yet the state government seems disinclined to respond. Over the last four years, the Madhya Pradesh government has successfully procured the summer moong crop. Nevertheless, last week, Agriculture Production Commissioner Ashok Barnwal revealed that procurement would not occur this year, citing contamination issues related to harmful weedicides.
Moong, which typically has a crop cycle of around two and a half months, is frequently harvested early by farmers utilizing combines after the application of broadleaf weedicides. This method enables them to save 10-15 days, critical for the timely sowing of the forthcoming kharif crop starting mid-June.
Last year, the state procured roughly 5.8 lakh tonnes of moong at an MSP of Rs 8,558 per quintal. Of this, the Centre financed the cost for 3.3 lakh tonnes, leaving the remaining stock for the state to sell in the open market.
A delegation from the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh (BKS) recently conferred with Chief Minister Mohan Yadav to advocate for procurement, but no decisive action has been taken thus far.
Point of View
My stance aligns with the continuous advocacy for farmers' rights and welfare. The government's procrastination on moong procurement raises significant concerns about agricultural policies and their impact on the farming community. It is imperative that authorities act swiftly to ensure fair pricing and support for our farmers.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Minimum Support Price (MSP)?
The Minimum Support Price (MSP) is a government-set price at which it purchases crops from the farmers, ensuring they receive a minimum profit for their harvest.
Why is the procurement of moong important for farmers?
Procurement of moong at MSP is crucial as it protects farmers from distress sales, enabling them to earn a fair income and sustain their livelihoods.
What has been the government's response to the procurement delays?
The state government has not provided a clear explanation for the procurement delays, which has led to accusations of negligence from opposition parties.
How much moong was procured last year?
Last year, approximately 5.8 lakh tonnes of moong were procured at an MSP of Rs 8,558 per quintal.
What are the consequences of the procurement delays?
Due to procurement delays, farmers are forced to sell their moong crop at lower prices in the open market, resulting in financial losses.
