Bhopal, April 25: Former Chief Minister Kamal Nath has accused the BJP-led Madhya Pradesh government of deliberately creating obstacles for farmers wishing to sell their grain at the Minimum Support Price (MSP). This statement follows the central government’s recent approval for the state to purchase 1 crore tons of wheat at MSP.
In a post on the social media platform X, Nath claimed that the government delayed the procurement process for nearly a month, citing a shortage of bags. As a result, many small farmers were forced to sell their wheat to middlemen at lower prices.
When the procurement process finally began, Nath alleged that the government rejected slot bookings for small farmers based on satellite surveys. This left farmers confused, as their crops were visible in the fields, yet their produce was not being purchased.
Nath also pointed out that farmers have been facing ongoing difficulties with slot bookings. He accused the government of implementing a discriminatory system where wheat from farmers with less than 5 acres of land would be purchased first, followed by medium and large farmers.
According to him, this is a calculated strategy, as many small farmers have already sold their grain to middlemen, reducing the overall procurement volume. Citing official data, Nath noted that by April 23, 1.9 million farmers had registered to sell wheat at MSP, but only about 700,000 managed to book slots.
He described this as an example of mismanagement, suggesting that the government is intentionally trying to reduce procurement. Nath questioned the government’s target of purchasing 1 crore tons of wheat, calling it a facade. He pointed out that Madhya Pradesh produced 2.45 crore tons of wheat last year, and this year, claims of higher production are being made.
Nath demanded that the government resolve the issues related to slot bookings and satellite surveys, ensure maximum procurement from farmers, and apologize for failing to fulfill the promise of providing MSP at ₹2,700 per quintal. He warned that farmers have understood the government’s tactics and will not remain silent against such policies.
In response, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced that the wheat procurement process will now run six days a week, with no holidays on Saturdays. The procurement at designated centers will continue without interruption, and the deadline for slot bookings has been extended to May 9, up from April 30.
The Chief Minister stated, “If necessary, this period can be extended further. Our government is committed to ensuring that farmers face no difficulties, and we stand with them in every situation.”
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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