Centre Announces Major Bengal Gram Procurement Under Price Support Scheme
The central government has taken a significant step to support agricultural communities by announcing the procurement of over 1 lakh tonne of Bengal gram under the Price Support Scheme. This initiative aims to provide immediate relief to farmers and prevent distress sales that have been a growing concern in recent times.
Urgent Appeal from Minister Pralhad Joshi
This procurement decision comes shortly after Union Minister Pralhad Joshi made an urgent appeal to the state government. Minister Joshi had specifically urged immediate action to announce the procurement of Bengal gram within Karnataka to safeguard farmers' interests and economic stability.
The minister emphasized that timely intervention was crucial to prevent farmers from resorting to distress sales, which typically occur when market prices fall below production costs, forcing agricultural producers to sell their harvest at significant losses.
Details of the Procurement Initiative
The Price Support Scheme, under which this procurement is being conducted, is designed to:
- Stabilize market prices for agricultural commodities
- Ensure farmers receive fair remuneration for their produce
- Create a safety net against price volatility
- Support agricultural sustainability and food security
With over 1 lakh tonne (100,000 metric tonnes) of Bengal gram targeted for procurement, this represents one of the substantial agricultural support measures implemented recently. Bengal gram, also known as chana or chickpea, is a crucial pulse crop in India with significant nutritional value and economic importance.
Impact on Karnataka's Agricultural Sector
This procurement initiative is particularly significant for Karnataka, where Bengal gram cultivation contributes substantially to the agricultural economy. The state has been facing challenges with price fluctuations and market uncertainties affecting pulse producers.
The central government's intervention through the Price Support Scheme is expected to:
- Provide immediate price stability for Bengal gram farmers
- Reduce financial stress on agricultural households
- Encourage continued cultivation of this important pulse crop
- Strengthen the overall agricultural supply chain in the region
The announcement comes at a critical time when farmers across several states have been expressing concerns about market prices and the need for government support mechanisms.
Broader Agricultural Policy Context
This procurement move aligns with the central government's broader agricultural policies focused on farmer welfare and food security. Price support mechanisms have been an integral part of India's agricultural strategy for decades, helping to balance producer interests with consumer needs.
The Bengal gram procurement under the Price Support Scheme demonstrates the government's commitment to addressing immediate agricultural challenges while working toward long-term sustainability in the farming sector.
