Farmers demand immediate procurement of Kharif crops at MSP in Palwal district

The district unit of the Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), a farmers’ organisation, has demanded the immediate start of official procurement of Kharif crops at Minimum Support Price (MSP). SKM alleges that private agencies are not providing MSP to farmers in various mandis of the district.

Mahender Singh Chauhan, SKM spokesperson, said the government’s announcement to start procurement from September 23 has failed to materialise. As a result, farmers are selling their produce below MSP. The 1509 variety of rice, equivalent to Parmal, is being sold at Rs 1,450-1,600 per quintal, despite the government-announced MSP of Rs 2,350 per quintal.

SKM will raise this issue with district authorities, seeking immediate procurement of various crops at MSP. Other demands include compensation for crop damage due to waterlogging and adequate fertiliser availability.

Gaurav Tewatia, a commission agent at Palwal market, confirmed that procurement of the 1509 paddy variety is happening at lower prices. Narveer Singh, an official at the Hassanpur mandi, stated that official procurement will likely begin after 10 days, as most crops are yet to be harvested, and moisture levels affect market prices.