India Raises MSPs for Major Rabi Crops by Up to Rs 675 Per Quintal

The Indian government has approved significant increases in Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) for all mandated Rabi crops for the 2027-28 marketing season. The highest increase was given to safflower, which will receive a hike of Rs 675 per quintal. Safflower is followed by rapeseed and mustard, with MSP increases of Rs 413 per quintal each.

Lentils (Masur) will also see an increase of Rs 390 per quintal. The MSP for barley has been raised by Rs 136 per quintal, while gram and wheat will receive increases of Rs 83 and Rs 25 per quintal, respectively. These hikes aim to provide remunerative prices for farmers growing Rabi crops.

The government's decision is in line with the Union Budget 2018-19 announcement to fix MSP at a level of at least 1.5 times the All-India weighted average Cost of Production. The Centre has also highlighted its efforts to encourage farmers to cultivate pulses and oilseeds, offering higher MSPs for these crops.

The increase in procurement of Rabi crops over the years is another key aspect of the government's strategy. Wheat procurement during 2014-15 to 2025-26 rose to 3,715 LMT, compared with 2,254 LMT during 2004-05 to 2013-14.