MP Cabinet Hikes DA to 55% for Pensioners, Launches Bhavantar Scheme for Soybean Farmers

In a significant relief measure, the dearness relief for pensioners under the Seventh Pay Commission has been raised from 53% to 55%, while Sixth Pay Commission pensioners will now receive 246% DA. The revised rates will be effective from 1 September 2025, impacting pensions and family pensions at a cost of Rs.170 crore to the state exchequer. This hike comes after employees received a DA increase earlier this year, which was yet to be extended to pensioners.

For farmers, the Cabinet cleared the Price Differential (Bhavantar) Scheme for soybean growers, ensuring they get the guaranteed Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Rs.5,328 per quintal even if mandi rates fall below it. Registration for the scheme, initially from 3–10 October, has been extended till 17 October under the Prime Minister’s Annadata Aay Suraksha Abhiyan for Kharif 2025.

Additionally, procurement rates for minor millets have been fixed under the Rani Durgawati Shri Ann Pratsahan Yojana 2025-26 — kodo at Rs.3,500 per quintal and kutki at Rs.2,500 per quintal. The state will establish the Shri Ann Federation with Rs.80 crore funding to promote and market these crops.

Other cabinet decisions include enhanced support for silk cultivation under Silk Samagra 2, Rs.31.60 crore MSME assistance under the RAMP scheme, housing rent aid of Rs.1,000 for urban trainees under the Sardar Patel Coaching Scheme, emergency medical support for MLA Madhu Verma, and judicial as well as contractual appointments for key projects.

With these approvals, MP has reinforced its commitment to pensioners’ welfare, farmers’ income security, and rural economic growth.