The Union government has announced a substantial elevation in the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for six principal winter (rabi) crops, effective for the 2026-27 marketing season. The decision, taken during a Cabinet session presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reflects a strategy to enhance the financial returns for agricultural producers and motivate them to explore different crops. These revised prices align with recommendations provided by the expert body, the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP).
Highlights of the Price Revision
The support price for wheat, a core rabi staple, has been increased by 6.59 per cent, setting the new rate at ₹2,585 per quintal, up from the ₹2,425 price of the preceding year.
Noteworthy, however, is the highest increase in monetary value: safflower received a massive boost of ₹600 per quintal, establishing its new MSP at ₹6,540. Following closely, the MSP for lentil (masur) was raised by ₹300, bringing its rate to ₹7,000 per quintal.
Revised rates for other major crops include:
- Gram (Chana): Elevated to ₹5,875 per quintal.
- Rapeseed and Mustard: Adjusted upwards to ₹6,200 per quintal.
Commitment to Farmer Profitability
This increase underscores the government's pledge to set MSPs at a minimum of 1.5 times the overall national average cost of production.
The projected returns for farmers are significant: wheat is expected to offer the largest margin over production cost at 109 per cent. Rapeseed and mustard follow at 93 per cent, with lentil projected to yield an 89 per cent margin.
This timely announcement aims to give growers the necessary price assurance as sowing activities for rabi crops commence, typically around late October to November.
