Massive Relief for Farmers: Centre Greenlights Procurement of 20 Lakh MT Potatoes in UP, Boosts Support in AP and Karnataka

Massive Relief for Farmers: Centre Greenlights Procurement of 20 Lakh MT Potatoes in UP, Boosts Support in AP and Karnataka​

In a significant move bolstering rural economies, the central government has approved a large-scale procurement effort for potatoes in Uttar Pradesh (UP). This timely intervention, announced by Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, aims to provide critical financial stability to potato-growing farmers nationwide.

The government has set a predetermined market intervention price of ₹6,500.9 per metric tonne for the potatoes. The approved procurement volume stands at 20 lakh metric tonnes, backed by a projected central financial contribution of ₹203.15 crore.

Securing Farmers Against Market Volatility in Uttar Pradesh​

The major potato procurement approval is designed to empower farmers in Uttar Pradesh. By assuring profitable returns, this measure prevents producers from facing forced sales at suboptimal rates amid fluctuating market conditions.

Agriculture Ministry confirmed that this timely move secures farmers' investments and output. It plays a crucial role in maintaining stability and predictability across the agricultural marketplace.

Extended Procurement Support in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka​

The comprehensive relief package extends beyond Uttar Pradesh. The government has also formalized potato procurement operations in Andhra Pradesh.

Additionally, the Minister approved an important extension for the procurement of tur (pigeon pea) in Karnataka. The chana procurement limit in Andhra Pradesh was specifically enhanced, raising the approved quota to 1,13,250 metric tonnes.

Targeted Interventions for Pulse Crops​

Building on these state-specific supports, the minister endorsed the Andhra Pradesh government’s request under the Price Support Scheme (PSS). This initially approved the procurement of 94,500 metric tonnes of chana, also known as Bengal gram.

Furthermore, the maximum allowable procurement quota for Bengal gram under PSS for the Rabi Marketing Season 2025-26 was elevated to a strengthened limit of 1,13,250 metric tonnes.

Central Government Commitment to Rural Economy​

Agriculture Minister Chouhan reiterated the Central Government's steadfast dedication to safeguarding the interests of every farmer. He highlighted the administration's core objective: ensuring no farmer is compelled to sell crops at undervalued rates due to market pressures.

The minister emphasized the ministry’s proactive approach, stressing continuous and close coordination with state governments. This coordination enables prompt, empathetic, and highly effective interventions tailored precisely to the needs of the agricultural communities.

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