Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Wednesday said the state government is committed to safeguarding farmers' interests and has constituted a ministerial committee to engage in dialogue with farmer organisations over issues related to the agriculture sector.

Addressing the media at Kushabhau Thakre Auditorium in Bhopal, the Chief Minister said the government is observing Krishak Kalyan Varsh (Farmers' Welfare Year) and remains open to constructive suggestions from farmers. He expressed confidence that discussions with farmer groups would help resolve the pending issues through dialogue.

Four-Member Ministerial Committee Formed

The newly constituted committee will interact with farmers and coordinate with officials to address agriculture-related concerns. The committee comprises:

• Agriculture Minister Edal Singh Kansana

• Public Works Minister Rakesh Singh

• Cooperation Minister Vishvas Sarang

• Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Backward Classes and Minority Welfare Krishna Gaur

According to the Chief Minister, the committee will hold discussions with farmers and work alongside government officials to find practical solutions to their concerns.

Government Committed to Farmers' Welfare

Dr. Yadav said the state government stands firmly with farmers and is making continuous efforts to protect their interests. He noted that Agriculture Minister Edal Singh Kansana had already held discussions with farmers a day earlier, and the newly formed committee would continue the dialogue process.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the government believes in resolving issues through consultation and consensus rather than confrontation.

Appeal to Avoid Public Inconvenience

The Chief Minister also stressed that while discussions are underway, all stakeholders should ensure that the public does not face unnecessary inconvenience. He said the government would take every necessary step for the welfare of farmers as well as the general public.

Expressing optimism over the ongoing engagement, Dr. Yadav said he hopes meaningful dialogue with farmer organisations will lead to an early resolution of the issues.

So far, Madhya Pradesh has recorded an average rainfall of approximately 9.7 inches, compared to the normal seasonal average of about 11.4 inches by mid-July. The delayed onset of the southwest monsoon has been a major factor behind the shortfall. The monsoon entered the state around June 24, later than usual, resulting in a substantial rainfall gap during June. Although rainfall activity intensified during the first half of July, weakening weather systems in recent days have once again slowed precipitation across much of the state.

Rainfall Uneven Across the State

The uneven distribution of rainfall has created contrasting conditions across Madhya Pradesh. While some areas witnessed intense downpours leading to swollen rivers and localized flooding, many districts have experienced only scattered light showers, preventing the overall rainfall deficit from narrowing significantly.

Weather data indicates that 39 districts continue to receive below-normal rainfall. Among the affected districts are Rewa, Satna, Jabalpur, Chhindwara, Sagar, Raisen, Vidisha, Dhar, Jhabua, Alirajpur, Betul, and Shivpuri. The extent of the deficit varies from district to district, but prolonged dry spells could have implications for agriculture and water resources if conditions persist.

Eastern Madhya Pradesh May Receive Better Rainfall

Meteorologists expect relatively stronger rainfall activity over Eastern Madhya Pradesh in the coming days. Districts including Rewa, Mauganj, Maihar, Sidhi, and Singrauli are likely to receive moderate rainfall, with isolated locations witnessing heavier spells under favorable local weather conditions.

Meanwhile, nearly 23 districts, including Indore, Raisen, Dhar, Jhabua, Khandwa, Betul, Narmadapuram, Jabalpur, and Satna, are expected to receive light rainfall. However, experts caution that scattered showers alone will not be sufficient to compensate for the existing seasonal deficit. A stronger weather system capable of bringing widespread rainfall over multiple days is needed to improve the overall situation.

Fresh Weather System Could Revive Monsoon

The India Meteorological Department is closely monitoring a new weather system expected to develop after July 20. If the system strengthens and carries sufficient moisture into central India, rainfall activity could increase significantly across eastern, central, and western Madhya Pradesh.

Meteorologists believe the final ten days of July will be crucial in determining whether the state can reduce its rainfall deficit before entering the peak monsoon phase.

Agriculture Dependent on Upcoming Rainfall

The current rainfall pattern has raised concerns for farmers, particularly in rain-fed agricultural regions. Madhya Pradesh is presently in the middle of the Kharif sowing season, during which crops such as soybean, paddy, maize, and urad require adequate soil moisture for healthy germination and early growth.

Areas that have received sufficient rainfall are witnessing normal agricultural activity, but districts experiencing prolonged dry spells may face challenges if the monsoon does not strengthen soon. The actual impact will vary depending on local rainfall, irrigation facilities, soil moisture levels, and crop type.

Water Resources Also Under Pressure

The rainfall deficit is affecting not only agriculture but also the replenishment of reservoirs, rivers, lakes, and groundwater reserves. Continuous and widespread rainfall is essential for improving storage levels during the monsoon season.

However, with August and September still remaining in the southwest monsoon period, weather experts note that there is still ample opportunity for the seasonal rainfall figures to improve if stronger weather systems become active in the coming weeks.

Weather Advisory

Residents are advised to continue monitoring local weather updates, as weak monsoon conditions do not rule out the possibility of sudden heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and temporary waterlogging. People living near rivers, low-lying areas, and flood-prone locations should remain cautious during periods of intense rainfall.

If the anticipated weather system develops as forecast after July 20, Madhya Pradesh could witness a broader revival of monsoon activity, providing much-needed relief to drought-hit districts and improving conditions for agriculture and water storage.

The programme is designed to promote inclusive, sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural development while strengthening rural economies through entrepreneurship, technology adoption and market linkages. Officials described the initiative as a significant step towards transforming agriculture at the grassroots level and creating new opportunities for rural youth.

Launching the programme, Chouhan said the vision of a developed India cannot be achieved without a strong agricultural sector and prosperous villages. He stressed that the government’s objective extends beyond increasing crop production and includes reducing cultivation costs, improving farm incomes and encouraging crop diversification.

According to the minister, small and marginal farmers face growing challenges in relying solely on traditional farming practices. He said greater emphasis is needed on value addition, food processing and agriculture-based enterprises to make farming more profitable and sustainable.

“Pragati” seeks to address these concerns by building a network of trained agri-entrepreneurs who will provide support services at the village level. These entrepreneurs are expected to assist farmers with soil testing, farm mechanisation, financial access, market connectivity and adoption of modern agricultural practices.

The initiative will initially be implemented across key agricultural states, including Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Assam and Jharkhand. These states account for a significant share of India’s farming population and include a large number of small landholding farmers.

Officials said the programme will focus on enhancing productivity while helping farmers diversify their income sources. Alongside crop cultivation, emphasis will be placed on horticulture, livestock farming, fisheries and beekeeping. The government believes such diversification can provide additional revenue streams and reduce dependence on a single source of farm income.

Chouhan highlighted the growing role of technology in agriculture and said future growth would depend on scientific farming methods and digital solutions. He pointed to the increasing use of drones, precision agriculture tools and digital advisory platforms as important drivers of efficiency and productivity in the sector.

The initiative also places strong emphasis on climate-sensitive farming practices. As weather-related uncertainties continue to affect agricultural output in several regions, policymakers are looking at ways to build resilience through better planning, improved resource management and technology-driven interventions.

Women’s participation has been identified as a key component of the programme. Chouhan said a large number of women agri-entrepreneurs and “Krishi Sakhis” would be integrated into the initiative to strengthen community-level outreach and support farmers more effectively.

He noted that empowering rural women through agricultural entrepreneurship could have a multiplier effect on village economies and social development. According to programme planners, locally trained entrepreneurs can serve as a bridge between government schemes, scientific institutions and farming communities.

The minister described the initiative as more than a government scheme, calling it a mission to create self-reliant and economically vibrant villages. He said efforts are also underway to develop state-specific agricultural roadmaps and promote scientific crop planning to improve long-term sustainability and profitability in the sector.

With agriculture continuing to support a large share of India’s population, policymakers view initiatives such as “Pragati” as crucial to increasing rural incomes, generating employment and accelerating the broader goal of inclusive economic growth.

The southwest monsoon has accelerated its advance, reaching central and southern districts. Officials expect the remaining areas to be covered within 24 hours.

The southwest monsoon has picked up pace across Chhattisgarh, covering the central and southern parts of the state. Officials said the remaining northern and north-western districts are likely to receive monsoon showers within the next 24 hours.

The India Meteorological Department has issued a warning for thunderstorms and lightning strikes across several parts of the state for the next two days.

On Wednesday, Dantewada and Raigarh districts recorded heavy rainfall. But despite the showers, Bilaspur remained the hottest city in the state at 39 degrees Celsius, while Rajnandgaon recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 22 degrees.

Here's the catch — the monsoon arrived nearly a week late this year, and the deficit tells the story. Between June 1 and now, Chhattisgarh should have received 127.8 mm of rainfall. The actual figure? Just 44.8 mm. That's a shortfall of nearly 65 per cent.

18 Districts Covered So Far

Monsoon has officially arrived in these districts:

Raipur, Durg, Dhamtari, Gariaband, Mahasamund, Balodabazar, Bemetara, Kabirdham, Rajnandgaon, Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki, Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai, Kanker, Kondagaon, Narayanpur, Bastar, Dantewada, Sukma, Bijapur.

These Districts Are Still Waiting

Surguja, Surajpur, Balrampur, Korea, Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur, Jashpur, Korba, Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi, Bilaspur, Mungeli, Janjgir-Champa, Sakti, Sarangarh-Bilaigarh, Raigarh.

Pre-monsoon showers are occurring in these areas, but the IMD has not officially declared the monsoon's arrival there yet.

Bastar Best Placed, But Still Behind

The Bastar division, which traditionally receives the first monsoon showers, has fared relatively better than other regions. But "better" is a relative term:

- Bastar district: 74.8 mm rainfall against a normal of 142.7 mm — a 48% deficit

- Dantewada: 49.9 mm against 107.7 mm normal — down by 54%

- Sukma: 60.3 mm recorded, which is 54% below normal

Kondagaon and Bijapur reported 51.9 mm and 28 mm respectively.

Central Chhattisgarh Worst Hit

The situation in central districts is far more concerning:

- Raipur: 25.3 mm against a normal of 90.1 mm — 72% deficit

- Dhamtari: 34.2 mm against 112.6 mm

- Durg: 34.2 mm against 113.9 mm

- Mahasamund: 20.7 mm against 105.4 mm

- Balodabazar: Just 14 mm against 81.3 mm

Several Districts Face 80%+ Deficit

- Rajnandgaon: 8.3 mm against 100.3 mm — a staggering 92% deficit (worst affected)

- Mohla-Manpur-Chowki: 95% deficit

- Balodabazar and Sarangarh-Bilaigarh: 83% below normal

- Sakti: 83% deficit

The Next 10 Days Could Make or Break the Season

These numbers aren't just statistics. The delayed and weak monsoon has meant that most districts haven't received enough soil moisture for sowing. Farmers across the state are watching the skies, waiting for the rains to pick up.

Agriculture experts say the next 10 days will be critical. If widespread, good rainfall doesn't arrive in the last week of June, the sowing window could shrink significantly, impacting crop yields later in the season.

The weather department has forecast thunderstorms and lightning across the state for the next five days. If heavy rain covers the entire state in these remaining days of June, the deficit could reduce rapidly.

For Raipur, the IMD has forecast cloudy skies with thunderstorms and rain on June 24. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 35 degrees, with the minimum settling at about 25 degrees.

The delayed monsoon has covered over half the state, but most districts are staring at a severe rainfall deficit just as the kharif season begins.

The southwest monsoon has finally made its way into Chhattisgarh, covering more than half the state after entering through the Dantewada region. But here's the catch — it arrived nearly a week late, and the rain it brought so far is nowhere near enough.

Data from the meteorological department shows that between June 1 and now, the state should have received 108.2 mm of rainfall. The actual figure? Just 33.2 mm. That's a deficit of nearly 69 per cent.

The monsoon's northern limit reached Raipur by June 23, triggering weather changes across most parts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has now issued a warning for thunderstorms and lightning strikes across the state for the next seven days.

Bastar Leads, But Still Falls Short

The Bastar division, which traditionally gets the first monsoon showers, has fared relatively better than other regions. But "better" is a relative term here:

- Bastar district: 74.8 mm rainfall against a normal of 142.7 mm — a 48% deficit

- Dantewada: 49.9 mm against 107.7 mm normal — down by 54%

- Sukma: 60.3 mm recorded, which is 54% below normal

Kondagaon and Bijapur reported 51.9 mm and 28 mm respectively.

Central Chhattisgarh Worst Hit

The situation in central districts is far more concerning. Raipur, the state capital, has recorded just 25.3 mm against a normal of 90.1 mm — a massive 72% deficit. Dhamtari, Durg, and Mahasamund are all reporting similar shortfalls, with deficits ranging between 70-80%.

But the numbers get even more alarming when you look at some districts:

- Rajnandgaon: 8.3 mm against a normal of 100.3 mm — a staggering 92% deficit

- Mohla-Manpur-Chowki: 95% deficit

- Balodabazar and Sarangarh-Bilaigarh: 83% below normal

- Sakti: 83% deficit

What This Means for Farmers

These numbers aren't just statistics — they matter on the ground. The kharif sowing season is underway, and most districts haven't received enough moisture for proper planting. Farmers are watching the skies nervously, waiting for the rains to pick up.

Agriculture experts say the next 10 days will be critical. If widespread, good rainfall doesn't arrive in the last week of June, the sowing window could shrink significantly, impacting crop yields later in the season.

The good news, according to the weather department, is that the coming week might bring some relief. Thunderstorms and lightning are expected across the state, with heavy spells possible in some areas.

Where It Rained in the Last 24 Hours

Doundi and Nangur recorded the highest rainfall in the past 24 hours. Mainpur and Dhamtari received 40 mm each. Areas like Sarsiwa, Kanker, Kukrel, Darbha, Nagri, Dhanora, Bhatgaon, Magarlod, Jagdalpur, Rajnandgaon, Baderajpur, and Tokapal reported around 30 mm.

Light to moderate rain was also recorded in Bastar, Bilaigarh, Amlipadar, Belargaon, Makdi, Gurur, Patan, Charama, Gariaband, Chhura, Sarona, Kurud, Bhanupratapur, Farsgaon, and Bhakhra.

Temperature Watch

Despite the rain, Bilaspur recorded the highest maximum temperature in the state at 39 degrees Celsius. Rajnandgaon saw the lowest minimum temperature at 22 degrees.

For Raipur, the IMD has forecast cloudy skies with thunderstorms and rain on June 24. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 35 degrees, with the minimum settling at about 25 degrees.

Officials are hopeful that the rainfall deficit will reduce significantly if the monsoon gains strength in the coming days. But for now, farmers and residents across Chhattisgarh are waiting — and watching the clouds.

Despite the current slowdown, meteorologists remain optimistic that conditions could become favorable for the monsoon to advance again within the next 4–5 days, with progress likely resuming between June 21 and June 23.

Third Consecutive Year of June Slowdown

The western branch of the monsoon has faced interruptions in recent years as well. In 2024, its advance slowed for about 8–9 days during the second week of June. In 2025, it remained nearly stationary along the Maharashtra coast for almost three weeks.

Weather experts note that such pauses do not necessarily indicate a weak monsoon season. Instead, rainfall often becomes concentrated into fewer days, resulting in more intense downpours when weather systems become active.

Why Has the Monsoon Stalled?

Meteorologists attribute the slowdown primarily to the delayed activation of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), a crucial weather system that normally shifts northward by mid-June and helps draw moisture-laden winds toward India.

Satellite observations from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) also suggest that El Niño conditions are beginning to develop, which can lead to prolonged dry spells and uneven rainfall distribution across the country.

While thunderstorm activity remains active over eastern India, cloud cover has been relatively weak across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and parts of western India, slowing the monsoon's progress.

Monsoon Progress So Far

After arriving in Kerala on June 4, the southwest monsoon advanced rapidly through 19 states within 14 days. However, it has remained stalled near Bhadrachalam in Telangana for the past week.

As a result, monsoon rains have been delayed in several regions, including Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and parts of central India, where farmers are eagerly awaiting widespread rainfall for sowing activities.

Pre-Monsoon Activity Continues

Even as the monsoon remains stalled, pre-monsoon showers have been reported in several states, including:

• Madhya Pradesh
• Uttar Pradesh
• Bihar
• Rajasthan
• Himachal Pradesh
• Chhattisgarh

Heavy rainfall affected parts of Bihar on Wednesday, while strong winds caused localized damage in Rajasthan, including uprooted trees and collapsed structures in Jaipur and Udaipur.

Heatwave Conditions Persist

The delayed monsoon has allowed heatwave conditions to continue across large parts of the country. Temperatures exceeded 40°C in several cities across:

• Uttar Pradesh
• Madhya Pradesh
• Bihar
• Jharkhand
• Odisha
• Telangana
• Andhra Pradesh
• Maharashtra

The highest temperature recorded in the country was 45°C in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

Rainfall Forecast

June 19

• Rain likely over Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal and Sikkim.
• Heavy rainfall expected in parts of Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karnataka.
• Thunderstorms and gusty winds likely in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

June 20

• Heavy rain expected in Sikkim, North Bengal, Assam and Meghalaya.
• Thunderstorms with strong winds likely in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
• Rainfall activity may continue in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.

When Will the Monsoon Advance Again?

According to IMD, the current pause is linked to upper-atmospheric jet stream patterns, which are influencing the movement of monsoon clouds. Once these fast-moving winds weaken, monsoon currents are expected to strengthen and advance into Maharashtra, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and adjoining regions.

Weather experts expect the next significant phase of monsoon advancement to begin by the third week of June, bringing relief from intense heat and improving conditions for agriculture across much of India.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav on Wednesday announced a major incentive package for dairy farmers, stating that the state government will provide a subsidy of ₹10 lakh for setting up dairy units with 25 cows under a project costing approximately ₹40 lakh. The announcement was made during a public event in Delanpur, where the Chief Minister emphasized the government's commitment to strengthening the dairy sector and promoting natural farming practices.

Addressing residents and farmers, Dr. Yadav said the initiative is part of a broader strategy to increase milk production and improve the economic condition of rural households. He also announced financial support for farmers engaged in natural farming along with cattle rearing, under which eligible beneficiaries will receive ₹1,100 per month.

The Chief Minister noted that India's share in global milk production needs to increase significantly and that states such as Madhya Pradesh can play a crucial role in achieving that goal through targeted support for dairy entrepreneurs.

Focus on Dairy and Natural Farming

According to Dr. Yadav, dairy farming offers a sustainable source of income for rural families while also supporting agricultural activities through the use of organic manure and natural farming methods.

The newly announced subsidy is expected to encourage farmers, youth, and rural entrepreneurs to establish organized dairy units. Officials believe the scheme could generate employment opportunities and contribute to the state's agricultural economy.

The monthly financial assistance for cattle owners practicing natural farming is also aimed at promoting environmentally sustainable agricultural practices while reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers.

Development of Religious Corridors

During the event, the Chief Minister also highlighted the government's ongoing efforts to develop major religious destinations across Madhya Pradesh.

Referring to the development of Chitrakoot, he said nearly ₹2,000 crore is being invested to transform the pilgrimage town, drawing comparisons with the large-scale infrastructure development undertaken in Ayodhya.

Dr. Yadav stated that all locations associated with Lord Ram's journey through present-day Madhya Pradesh would be developed as important pilgrimage destinations. According to traditional accounts, Lord Ram spent more than eleven years in the region during his exile and traveled through areas including Chitrakoot, Panna, Shahdol, Jabalpur, Vidisha, and Khargone.

The Chief Minister also announced funds for local infrastructure works at the temple complex in Delanpur, including flooring of the assembly area, construction of a boundary wall, and installation of a drinking water tank.

Opposition Criticized Over Development Issues

While speaking at the gathering, Dr. Yadav also targeted opposition parties, accusing them of being uncomfortable with discussions centered on development and infrastructure projects.

Highlighting preparations for Simhastha 2028 and the proposed Indore Metropolitan City project, he said the state government remains focused on delivering results rather than engaging in political debates.

"We are committed to development-oriented governance. Work related to Simhastha 2028 is progressing, and the vision of a metropolitan development model for the region will soon become a reality," he said.

Impact on Rural Economy

Policy experts believe the dairy subsidy scheme could strengthen rural incomes and encourage diversification in agriculture. By linking dairy farming with natural farming practices, the government aims to create a more sustainable agricultural ecosystem while expanding milk production capacity.

The announcement is expected to benefit small and medium-scale farmers looking to enter the organized dairy sector and may play a role in boosting employment and economic activity in rural Madhya Pradesh in the coming years.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav is scheduled to visit Ujjain district on Wednesday, where he will inaugurate the Samakota Barrage, a major irrigation project constructed at a cost of ₹188.42 crore. Located on the Chhoti Kalisindh River in Jharada tehsil, the project is expected to provide irrigation benefits to thousands of farming families and strengthen agricultural infrastructure in the region.

According to officials, the barrage has been designed to improve water availability for agriculture and support sustainable farming practices. The project is expected to benefit more than 11,000 farmer families across 18 villages by ensuring a reliable irrigation network for a large area of cultivable land.

The inauguration forms part of a broader development initiative under which the Chief Minister will dedicate public infrastructure projects worth more than ₹207 crore to the people of the district.

Major Boost for Irrigation

The Samakota Barrage has a water storage capacity of 17.57 million cubic metres and is designed to irrigate approximately 7,236 hectares of agricultural land through a pipeline-based distribution system.

Officials said the project will directly benefit farmers in villages including Nalkheda, Panodia, Neemkheda, Ghattiyajassa, Melakhedi, Khoriyapadma, Kherla, Lasudiyanahata, Nagpura, Chhajjukhedi, Delakhedi, Dungarkhedi, Khedamadda, Kason, Mahidpuriya, Somchidi, and Jharada.

Agriculture experts believe improved irrigation infrastructure can help increase crop productivity, reduce dependence on erratic rainfall, and enhance rural livelihoods in the region.

Additional Development Projects

During the visit, the Chief Minister will also inaugurate several public infrastructure projects valued at more than ₹19 crore. These projects cover sectors such as education, healthcare, and power distribution.

Among the key initiatives are a college building constructed by the Higher Education Department at a cost of ₹4.35 crore and new girls' school buildings in Semalia, Mahidpur Road, and Kundikheda under the School Education Department.

The development package also includes a 33/11 KV power substation at Mochikheda, aimed at improving electricity supply in the area. In addition, 13 sub-health centre buildings in the Jharada region will be inaugurated to strengthen healthcare services in rural communities.

Focus on Rural Development

Officials stated that the projects reflect the state's focus on improving infrastructure in rural and semi-urban areas. Investments in irrigation, education, healthcare, and energy are expected to contribute to long-term socio-economic growth and improve the quality of life for residents.

The irrigation project, in particular, is being viewed as a significant step toward enhancing agricultural resilience in the region, where farming remains a primary source of income for a large section of the population.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Friday announced a major expansion in the state’s wheat procurement programme, allowing all eligible farmers to sell their produce amid record output this season. Addressing farmers in the state, the Chief Minister said the government had increased the wheat procurement target from 78 lakh metric tonnes to 100 lakh metric tonnes to ensure wider market access.

The announcement marks a significant shift in Madhya Pradesh wheat procurement policy, with the state seeking to absorb higher arrivals and reduce distress sales in the open market.

Six-Day Purchase Plan

Under the revised arrangement, wheat procurement will now take place six days a week across the state. Procurement centres, which earlier remained shut on Saturdays, will now operate on that day as well.

Officials said the move is aimed at easing pressure on procurement centres and reducing waiting time for farmers during the peak arrival period. According to officials, the extended schedule is expected to improve daily lifting and speed up the purchase process.

Slot Booking Extended

In another key relief measure, the state government extended the deadline for wheat procurement slot booking from April 30 to May 9. The booking window has also been opened for all farmers across Madhya Pradesh, removing restrictions that had limited access in some cases.

The Chief Minister said the extension would help ensure that no farmer is left out of the procurement cycle. As per reports, the decision was taken after feedback from farmers and local officials over delays in registration and scheduling.

Farmers at Centre

Calling farmers the foundation of the state’s development, Yadav said the government had dedicated this year as “Kisan Kalyan Varsh” and would prioritise farm-sector reforms. He said the revised wheat procurement policy was designed to support small, medium and large farmers alike.

At present, wheat sales in government procurement are linked to land records and fixed productivity norms. This means farmers can sell only the quantity estimated on the basis of acreage and notified yield. The latest changes are expected to widen access, particularly for those reporting higher production this year.

Broader Farm Measures

The Chief Minister also announced a series of agriculture-focused measures beyond Madhya Pradesh wheat procurement. He said farmers would receive up to four times compensation under land acquisition provisions and added that the state was pushing irrigation expansion, crop diversification and modern farm technologies.

On pulses, he said urad would be procured at minimum support price and farmers would receive a bonus of Rs 600 per quintal. He also said agricultural pump connections were being provided for Rs 5 and solar pumps under the Krishak Mitra Yojana were being offered with 90 per cent subsidy.

According to officials, the state has also stocked 5.90 lakh metric tonnes of urea this year, higher than last year, to ensure adequate fertiliser supply during the farm season.

Congress Hits Back

The Opposition Congress criticised the Chief Minister’s address, calling it a bundle of announcements without adequate execution on the ground. State Congress chief Jitu Patwari questioned the pace of procurement, slot booking delays and electricity supply to farmers.

He alleged that wheat procurement remained slow and claimed many farmers were still being forced to sell in the open market at lower rates. Patwari also raised concerns over transparency in farm schemes and sought clarity on support for soybean, paddy and moong growers.

What Lies Ahead

The state government will now face the challenge of implementing the expanded Madhya Pradesh wheat procurement plan without logistical disruptions. With arrivals expected to remain high in the coming weeks, procurement efficiency, timely payments and centre-level coordination will remain under close watch.

Kisan Credit Card Loan Repayment Extended to 6 Years: RBI Draft Guidelines Aim to Transform Agricultural Credit

In a major relief for farmers, the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loan repayment period has been extended to six years under new draft guidelines released by the Reserve Bank of India. The move is aimed at making agricultural credit more flexible, modern, and aligned with current farming practices.

The RBI has invited public feedback on the proposed changes until March 6, 2026. If implemented, the revised Kisan Credit Card framework could significantly ease repayment pressure while promoting modern and organic farming methods across India.

What Is the Kisan Credit Card Scheme?

The Kisan Credit Card scheme was launched to ensure farmers get timely and affordable credit for agricultural and allied activities. Over the years, it has become a crucial financial tool for rural India.

Under the scheme, farmers can avail loans for:

 Crop cultivation (short-term and long-term)

 Post-harvest expenses

 Marketing of produce

 Maintenance of farm assets

 Domestic and allied activities

In 2019, the scheme was expanded to include Animal Husbandry, Dairy, and Fisheries sectors, widening its scope and impact.

Key Changes Proposed in RBI KCC Guidelines

The draft guidelines introduce several important reforms to strengthen agricultural credit delivery.

1. KCC Loan Repayment Extended to 6 Years

The most significant change is the extension of the KCC loan repayment tenure to six years. Earlier, repayment timelines were shorter, creating pressure—especially for long-duration crops. The new structure offers farmers more breathing space and financial stability.

2. Standardized Crop Season Duration

 12 months for short-duration crops

 18 months for long-duration crops

This standardization will ensure uniform loan sanction and repayment cycles across Commercial Banks, Small Finance Banks, Regional Rural Banks, and Rural Co-operative Banks.

3. Credit Limit Linked to Actual Cost of Cultivation

The drawing limit will now align with the “scale of finance” — the real cost of cultivation for each crop. This ensures farmers receive adequate credit without shortfalls.

4. Separate Support for Modern Agricultural Practices

The existing 20% additional provision for repair and maintenance of farm assets will now include:

 Soil testing

 Real-time weather forecasting

 Certification for organic farming

 Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) compliance

This marks a major shift towards technology-driven and sustainable farming.

Why This Matters Now

With rising input costs, climate uncertainty, and growing demand for organic produce, Indian agriculture is undergoing rapid transformation. The RBI’s proposed reforms come at a time when farmers need:

 Longer repayment flexibility

 Support for climate-resilient farming

 Access to scientific and sustainable practices

Agriculture experts believe the inclusion of soil testing and organic certification expenses will accelerate India’s push towards sustainable agriculture.

A senior rural banking consultant noted, “Extending the KCC loan repayment period and aligning credit with real cultivation costs can reduce farmers’ dependency on informal moneylenders.”

Benefits for Farmers

If implemented, the revised Kisan Credit Card rules will:

 Reduce financial stress due to longer tenure

 Provide adequate and realistic credit limits

 Promote adoption of modern and organic farming

 Lower dependence on high-interest informal loans

Overall, the reforms aim to make agricultural financing more practical, farmer-centric, and future-ready.

How to Submit Feedback

The RBI has invited feedback from stakeholders and the public until March 6, 2026. Individuals can share suggestions via email or through the official RBI website. Final guidelines will be issued after reviewing responses.

The extension of the Kisan Credit Card loan repayment to six years signals a progressive shift in agricultural credit policy. By supporting soil testing, weather forecasting, and organic certification, the RBI’s draft guidelines are not just easing repayment pressure — they are laying the foundation for modern, sustainable Indian farming.