Jamnagar, March 27: The grain markets in Gujarat are bustling these days. A large number of chickpea and mustard farmers are arriving at the markets to sell their produce at the minimum support price (MSP).
This year, the Gujarat government has implemented a transparent system for the MSP procurement of chickpeas and mustard to provide financial security to farmers. A total of 165 centers for chickpea procurement and 60 for mustard have been established across the state. Farmers are also flocking to the APMC Hapa yard in Jamnagar to sell their crops.
Chandresh Bhai Dobariya, a farmer from Nani Matthi village, shared, “I came here after sowing chickpeas. Today, I am here to sell them at the government-fixed price. Earlier, the market price was low. This time, I am getting a better price at the government procurement centers.”
Vimal Kadiya, a farmer from Tharvada village, stated, “The government has started purchasing chickpeas at a fair rate. We were getting lower prices at other markets, so we came here to sell our produce at the MSP. The payment process here is very efficient, which is why all of us farmers are selling our crops here.”
District Agriculture Officer R.S. Gohil announced that the government has decided to start MSP procurement for chickpeas and mustard. The prices have been set at ₹1,175 per 20 kg for chickpeas and ₹1,210 per 20 kg for mustard. In Jamnagar district, approximately 34,800 farmers have registered for chickpea procurement, while 2,760 farmers have registered for mustard.
Under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the Gujarat government has introduced ‘Aadhaar-enabled biometric’ and ‘face authentication’ processes for the first time during the MSP procurement of chickpeas and mustard to prevent any discrepancies. This initiative aims to eliminate middlemen and ensure that the benefits of MSP reach the actual farmers.
Mukund Sabhaya, president of APMC Hapa, noted that farmers are pleased as they are receiving a fair price for chickpeas, which is higher compared to previous rates. Adequate prices are also being offered for mustard. The state government has consistently supported farmers whenever needed.
Additionally, to manage crowds at the procurement centers and enhance convenience for farmers, the government has arranged to notify them via SMS about their scheduled time. Elderly and ill farmers are also allowed to send a nominee to the market on their behalf. Furthermore, the state government has assured farmers that it will purchase their entire yield of chickpeas and mustard at MSP to empower them economically.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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