Mumbai, 09 Oct (Commoditiescontrol): The Indian government is set to raise the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Rabi crops by 4-6%, with a particular focus on pulses like masoor (lentils) and chana (chickpeas), according to official sources. The adjustment is designed to encourage farmers to increase legume cultivation, reducing the country's dependency on imports amid rising global prices and widening supply gaps.
The MSP hike comes as the area under pulse cultivation expanded by 7.47% this year, reaching 12.81 million hectares compared to 11.92 million hectares in 2023. However, domestic production still falls short of the country’s annual demand, which exceeds 29 million tonnes.
The revised MSP for masoor is expected to rise to ₹6,425 per quintal, up from last year’s ₹6,000, while chana could see an increase from ₹5,335 to ₹5,450 per quintal. This policy shift is anticipated to drive further investment into pulse farming as farmers respond to the government's push to meet local demand and stabilize prices.
Analysts note that while the MSP increase is a step toward greater self-reliance, challenges remain. India's pulse production is still insufficient to meet consumption needs, leaving the country vulnerable to global price fluctuations. The government’s recent removal of the 66% import duty on desi chana underscores the urgency of balancing domestic production with international sourcing.
Industry experts warn that any delay in finalizing the new MSP could impact planting decisions for the upcoming Rabi season. The new pricing structure is expected to be announced by the end of the month, providing critical guidance for farmers as they prepare for the next crop cycle.
(By Commoditiescontrol Bureau; +91-9820130172)