Paddy MSP hike likely as eastern states move proposal in Bhubaneswar meeting

A hike in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for paddy along with pulses and oilseeds is likely as the representatives of eastern states put forth the proposal before the Central government during a meeting in Bhubaneswar on Friday.

A meeting, held at State Guesthouse, included key figures such as Professor Vijay Paul Sharma, Chairman of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP).

Also Read: Paddy to be procured from farmers at Rs 3100 per quintal: Odisha Minister

According to the official sources, delegations from Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Jharkhand participated, providing crucial data on the production rates of essential crops including rice, wheat, pulses, and oilseeds.

Discussions were held by the representatives from the eastern states of the country, who put forward a proposal to the Central government.

The primary focus of these deliberations was to establish a suitable MSP increase that would favourably impact farmers’ welfare. The states involved are set to submit detailed proposals in writing to the Central government soon.

“The discussions are on. However, our focus will be to move towards crop diversification, where we will encourage our paddy and pulses farmers to diversify and get profitable returns and good quality seeds, and other allied items needed for agricultural farming. The farmers should also be able to make use of technology,” CACP Chairman Sharma said.

Must Read: Odisha farmers 'forced to sell paddy to Andhra Pradesh buyers below MSP'

“Findings and calculations of our agricultural university (OUAT, Bhubaneswar) regarding the increases in field inputs have been presented. However, a final proposal with due approval is to be sent to the Government of India. Input costs including labour and pesticide have been found to have increased by 10 to 15 per cent,” Director of Odisha Agriculture department, Prem Chandra Chaudhary expressed while briefing to mediapersons.

“Accordingly, a final proposal will be sent to the Central government. The matter was only discussed today,” the Director further said.