Bhopal: In a major relief for farmers, the Madhya Pradesh government has announced a series of farmer-friendly decisions, including increasing the procurement limit for summer moong (green gram) from 25% to 60%, extending slot booking for procurement till August 10, and suspending the fertiliser distribution e-token system until necessary improvements are made.
The decisions were taken during a meeting between a Group of Ministers constituted by Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav and representatives of various farmers’ organisations at the Mantralaya in Bhopal on Tuesday.
State Agriculture Minister Aidal Singh Kansana said the government remains committed to protecting farmers’ interests and ensuring they receive fair prices for their produce.
Moong Procurement Limit More Than Doubled
The Government of India had fixed a procurement target of 4.52 lakh metric tonnes of summer moong for Madhya Pradesh this year. Under the Centre’s procurement guidelines, only 25% of the state’s estimated production was initially eligible for procurement at the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
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Following discussions with farmer representatives, the state government decided to significantly enhance the procurement limit.
Under the revised arrangement, up to 60% of each eligible farmer’s moong produce will now be procured at MSP. In major moong-producing districts such as Narmadapuram, Sehore and Harda, this is expected to translate into procurement of nearly three quintals per acre.
Minister Kansana said the revised procurement limit has come into effect immediately and will enable a much larger number of farmers to benefit from the MSP scheme.
Slot Booking Extended Till August 10
To provide additional convenience to farmers, the state government has also extended the slot booking deadline.
The revised schedule is:
- Last date for slot booking: August 10 (earlier July 30)
- Last date for procurement: August 20 (earlier August 10)
The extension is aimed at ensuring that more eligible farmers can register and sell their produce under the procurement programme.
Fertiliser E-Token System Suspended
The government also reviewed complaints regarding the newly introduced e-token system for fertiliser distribution.
Acknowledging difficulties faced during its initial implementation, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has ordered the immediate suspension of the system until improvements are made.
Minister Kansana said the e-token mechanism is an important reform that is expected to benefit farmers in the long run, but certain operational issues need to be addressed before it is implemented again.
High-Level Committee Constituted
To improve the fertiliser distribution mechanism, the Chief Minister has constituted a high-level committee under the chairmanship of the Agriculture Production Commissioner (APC).
The committee will:
- Examine complaints related to the e-token system.
- Recommend necessary improvements.
- Submit its report to the state government.
- Facilitate immediate implementation of approved reforms.
Until the committee’s recommendations are received and corrective measures are implemented, fertiliser distribution through the e-token system will remain suspended.
Government Reiterates Commitment to Farmers
Minister Kansana said the Madhya Pradesh government considers farmers the backbone of the state’s economy and remains committed to protecting their interests. He said the latest decisions reflect the government’s resolve to provide better procurement facilities, simplify agricultural services and ensure that farmers receive maximum benefits from government schemes.
