Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Wednesday, May 31 that the state government will directly procure mustard seeds from farmers at an increased rate through the Price Support Scheme (PSS).
This move aims to provide better returns to farmers and enhance their income. Sarma informed reporters that the minimum support price (MSP) for mustard seeds has been raised to Rs 5,450 per quintal, a significant increase from the current market rate of Rs 4,500-Rs 4,800 per quintal. The higher MSP is expected to generate an additional income of Rs 250 crore for farmers in Assam.
At present, there are two procurement centers in Raha, Nagaon district, and Amingaon, Kamrup. However, the state government has decided to utilize the existing 92 paddy procurement centers, along with the nine agricultural marketing centers, for mustard seed procurement. Sarma emphasized that this step will expand the reach and accessibility of the procurement process.
The procurement will be facilitated by the Assam State Agricultural Board and Assam Food and Civil Supplies Corporation at the state level, while the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) will act as the central agency.
The procurement period is set to take place from May 29 to August 26. During this time, the bank details of farmers will be shared with NAFED, ensuring prompt payment. Within three days of procurement, the respective amounts will be credited directly to the farmers' accounts, Sarma explained.
Sarma highlighted the significance of the initiative, mentioning that after the successful procurement of paddy at the support price, the decision had been made to extend this benefit to mustard farmers. He emphasized that this step would not only contribute to the growth of the agriculture sector but also serve as an inspiration for farmers to participate in a second cropping cycle. The Assam government's emphasis on supporting farmers and bolstering the agricultural sector demonstrates its dedication to rural development and the well-being of the farming community.
In addition, Chief Minister Sarma expressed intentions to expand the enhanced support price scheme to include dairy farmers, recognizing their vital contribution to the agricultural landscape. This move indicates the government's dedication to uplifting farmers across various sectors and fostering sustainable growth in Assam's agricultural economy.
With plans to extend the support price scheme to dairy farmers in the near future, the government is actively working to uplift all sections of the farming community and promote overall agricultural development in the state of Assam.
