New Delhi, May 28: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced significant government measures aimed at alleviating the rural and agricultural crisis. He stated that Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah assured the state government of prompt and favorable interventions to address the primary concerns of sugarcane and onion farmers.
Following a meeting in the national capital, Fadnavis informed reporters that the central government would soon implement concrete policy decisions regarding an increase in the minimum selling price (MSP) of sugar, an expansion of the ethanol quota, restructuring of cooperative loans, and direct procurement of onions from farmers.
Expressing satisfaction with the discussions, Fadnavis noted that the central cooperation minister fully agreed with the state’s assessment that an immediate increase in the sugar MSP is essential for maintaining the cooperative system.
He mentioned that Amit Shah acknowledged the necessity for price hikes. The central government has requested a formal regulatory price proposal from the state, which has already been drafted and will be submitted promptly. Additionally, the center has agreed to significantly increase the state’s ethanol procurement quota, with formal policy decisions expected within the next two months.
Moreover, the central government committed to collaborating with state administration to develop a mechanism for restructuring the old debts of struggling sugar factories. The Chief Minister also revealed that the center has approved the immediate release of pending interest subsidy funds to alleviate cash flow issues.
To address ongoing instability in onion markets, Fadnavis announced structural reforms in procurement operations managed by central agencies like NAFED and the National Cooperative Consumer Federation.
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