Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has reiterated that the state government is committed to ensuring farmers receive prices above the Minimum Support Price (MSP). Speaking at an event held at the Apex Bank headquarters in Bhopal, he said that any irregularities in cooperative societies will face strict action. The focus of the government remains on strengthening the rural economy under the broader framework of farmer welfare.

As part of the event, the Chief Minister also launched a statewide plantation drive under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, marking the beginning of a green cooperative initiative. According to officials, one lakh saplings will be planted across cooperative institutions between June 5 and June 21.

Focus on Farmer Income Growth

The Chief Minister stated that the government’s priority under the farmer welfare agenda is to significantly increase farmers’ income through diversified agricultural and allied activities. He highlighted that Madhya Pradesh is moving steadily toward becoming a major milk-producing hub in the country.

Dr. Mohan Yadav said that milk production is being actively promoted through cooperative models, helping farmers improve their economic stability. He added that initiatives in horticulture, sugarcane farming, and dairy expansion are contributing to rural prosperity.

Strict Action on Cooperatives

The Chief Minister issued a clear warning that any official or employee found involved in irregularities within Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) will face strict action. However, he assured that farmers associated with these societies will not be affected by such measures.

He stressed that transparency and accountability are central to the government’s cooperative reform agenda, which forms a key pillar of the farmer welfare program.

Irrigation and Production Boost

The government has also expanded its irrigation infrastructure through the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal project, aimed at increasing irrigated farmland. Farmers are being provided daytime electricity supply to support agricultural activities.

Reports suggest that wheat procurement has reached record levels this year compared to previous seasons, with additional bonuses provided to farmers. The state has also implemented price support mechanisms for soybean crops.

Narendra Modi is leading national-level agricultural reforms that align with state efforts to strengthen the rural economy.

Policy Impact and Outlook

Experts believe that the crackdown on cooperative irregularities combined with aggressive agricultural reforms could significantly strengthen rural income systems. Increased focus on dairy expansion and irrigation is expected to improve productivity in the coming years.

The government maintains that these measures are part of a long-term strategy to position Madhya Pradesh as a leading agricultural state in India.

Centre raises MSP for 14 kharif crops: Paddy up ₹72, tur by ₹450

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved an increase in the Minimum Support Price for 14 kharif crops, with paddy getting a ₹72 per quintal hike and tur dal seeing a sharp ₹450 rise.

Paddy, Tur get a push

The government has fixed the new MSP for paddy at ₹2,441 per quintal. For tur (pigeon pea), the increase is significantly higher at ₹450, reflecting the government's focus on boosting pulses production.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed the decision after the Cabinet meeting. Officials said the revised rates will apply to the upcoming kharif sowing season, which typically begins with the onset of the southwest monsoon.

 What is MSP?

Minimum Support Price works as a safety net for farmers. When market prices fall below a certain level, the government steps in to buy crops at the guaranteed rate. This protects growers from sudden price crashes, especially during years of bumper production.

The Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices recommends these rates before each crop season. The government largely accepts them, though political pressure often pushes MSPs higher than what the CACP originally suggests.

Other Cabinet decisions

Coal gasification push

The Cabinet approved a ₹37,500 crore scheme for surface coal and lignite gasification projects. The technology converts coal into gas, and the government wants to process 100 million tonnes by 2030. Officials believe this will cut down import dependence and strengthen energy security.

Nagpur Airport lease extended

The lease period for AAI-owned land at Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport has been extended. The land was previously leased to MIHAN India Limited, and the tenure will now continue beyond August 6, 2039.

Semi-high-speed rail project cleared

The Ahmedabad (Sarkhej)-Dholera double line project received the green signal. At ₹20,667 crore, this will be India's first semi-high-speed railway project developed entirely with indigenous technology. The railways ministry will implement it.

Impact on farmers

For paddy growers, the ₹72 increase is modest compared to previous years. But traders note that tur farmers will benefit substantially. Pulses have seen volatile prices in recent seasons, and a higher MSP may encourage more area under cultivation.

Sources familiar with the matter said the government is particularly focused on reducing import dependency for tur and other pulses. India still brings in significant quantities from Myanmar and African nations.

The sowing season is just weeks away. Whether these rates actually translate into higher farmer incomes will depend on procurement efficiency. Past seasons have seen complaints about delayed purchases and limited procurement centres in some states.