Expansion of MSP: Haryana Adds 10 Crops

In a landmark agricultural reform, the Haryana government has announced the Expansion of MSP (Minimum Support Price) coverage to 24 crops, making it the first Indian state to procure such a wide range of crops at MSP rates.

This bold move reinforces the state's commitment to farmers' welfare, agricultural stability, and rural economic growth.

Haryana Leads the Way in MSP Expansion

Previously, MSP in Haryana was limited to just 14 crops. With the inclusion of ragi, soybeans, jowar, moong, barley, maize, jute, and Chopra, the total now stands at 24 crops.

This broadening of MSP coverage is expected to boost market price stability, secure farmer incomes, and encourage crop diversification across the state.

Key Highlights of the MSP Expansion:

• Haryana is now procuring 24 crops at MSP—the highest in the country.

• New MSP crops include coarse grains, oilseeds, pulses, and fibers.

• This move aligns with the Union Government’s MSP policy but surpasses it in implementation.

• Aimed at reducing market volatility and increasing price assurance for farmers.

Financial Relief Measures

Alongside the MSP reform, the state has introduced several farmer support initiatives:

• Complete waiver of 'Abiana', the irrigation water charge, benefiting thousands of farmers.

• Rs 133 crore in pending irrigation charges will be waived.

• An annual relief of Rs 54 crore to farmers from the abolition of this charge.

• Rs 137 crore committed for natural disaster compensation, to be disbursed within a week.

• Introduction of a subsidy scheme for three-star motors for agricultural tube wells.

Political Significance

• The announcement comes just months ahead of the Haryana Assembly Elections.

• Following a dip in the BJP’s vote share from 58% in 2019 to 46% in 2024, and Congress gaining 5 Lok Sabha seats, this initiative is seen as a strategic push to win back rural and farming community support.

• Haryana Chief Minister has urged party workers to engage with citizens and showcase these agriculture-friendly policies as achievements.

Understanding Minimum Support Price (MSP)

MSP is a government-determined price to protect farmers against market price fluctuations. First introduced in 1966, MSP is announced for 23 crops, including wheat, rice, pulses, cereals, and oilseeds, at the start of every sowing season.

The MSP policy aims to:

• Ensure a minimum guaranteed income for farmers

• Support food grain production and food security through PDS

• Encourage farmers to adopt diverse and high-yielding crop patterns

Final Thoughts

The Expansion of MSP in Haryana is a game-changing move for Indian agriculture. By including more crops under MSP and offering multiple relief schemes, the government is making a strong statement in favor of farmer welfare, sustainable agriculture, and inclusive economic development.

Haryana has not only taken the lead in implementing a comprehensive MSP procurement system but also set a benchmark for other states to follow in safeguarding farmers' interests and boosting agricultural resilience.