Farmers will directly benefit from the MSP procurement of pulses and oilseeds.
The MSP for lentils is ₹7,000 this year; procurement began in the state on April 10th.
The target is to increase pulse production from 3.93 lakh metric tons to 11.27 lakh metric tons.
Patna, April 18.
The central government has approved the MSP procurement of lentils, as well as gram and mustard, in Bihar. For the first time in the state, lentil procurement at MSP began on April 10th. It is believed that this government initiative will not only boost the production of pulses and oilseeds but will also significantly increase farmers’ income.
The Bihar government is emphasizing increasing the production of pulses and oilseeds through its Saat Nishchay-3. The Agriculture Department has set a goal of achieving self-sufficiency in pulse production in the next five years. To achieve this, a plan is underway to increase pulse coverage from 4.48 lakh hectares to 9.19 lakh hectares and production from 3.93 lakh metric tons to 11.27 lakh metric tons.
Various measures, including the establishment of pulse processing units, are being taken to promote processing and marketing. The state government is promoting pulse crops through various schemes under the Agriculture Roadmap. The “Self-Sufficiency in Pulses Mission” has been implemented, prioritizing pulse cultivation. Its positive results will be visible in the coming days.
*Seeds will be provided at subsidized rates*
To strengthen the pulse seed system in the state, a seed production action plan has been prepared, under which 45,922 quintals of certified seed and 2,043 quintals of foundation seed will be produced. Additionally, 115,742 quintals of high-quality seeds will be made available to farmers at subsidized rates, potentially expanding pulses cultivation to approximately 4.14 lakh hectares.
32,000 metric tons of lentils will be purchased.
The state government will purchase 32,000 metric tons of lentils from farmers at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for lentils for the 2026-27 Rabi marketing season. The Minimum Support Price (MSP) for lentils has been set at ₹7,000. A good price for lentils will significantly increase farmers’ income. Additionally, 16,750 metric tons of gram and 28,000 metric tons of mustard will be purchased at the MSP.