Parliamentary Panel Urges MSP for Organic Crops to Protect Farmers
New Delhi, March 27 – A Parliamentary Standing Committee has urged the Union Ministry of Agriculture to fix a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for organic crops, highlighting the need to safeguard farmers transitioning to sustainable agriculture.Panel Criticizes Limited MSP Coverage
In its 17th report, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Food Processing criticized the ministry for restricting MSP to 22 notified crops and not extending it to organic produce.The ministry informed the Rajya Sabha that MSP and Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) for sugarcane are determined based on recommendations from the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP).
Higher Costs in Organic Farming Highlighted
Rejecting the ministry’s response, the panel emphasized that organic farming involves higher costs, including:- Additional labour for composting and weeding
- On-farm input preparation
- Certification and segregation expenses
MSP Seen as Key to Promoting Organic Farming
The committee said introducing MSP for organic crops would:- Protect farmers from price volatility
- Compensate for higher input costs and lower initial yields
- Encourage wider adoption of organic and natural farming practices
Boost to Government Schemes
The panel also noted that MSP support would strengthen initiatives like:- Natural farming programmes
- Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)
Call for Government Action
The committee has asked the ministry to review its stance and take necessary steps, stressing that MSP for organic produce is essential to ensure farmer protection and long-term agricultural sustainability.Disclaimer: Due care and diligence have been taken in compiling and presenting news and market-related content. However, errors or omissions may arise despite such efforts.
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