Karnataka Farmers Get a Major Boost: Centre to Procure Over 1 Lakh Tonne of Bengal Gram Under Key Support Scheme

In a significant and much-welcomed move for Karnataka's agricultural community, the Central government has announced plans to procure a substantial quantity of Bengal gram, often known as chickpea, from farmers across the state. We're talking about over one lakh metric tonnes – a truly considerable amount – all under the protective umbrella of the Price Support Scheme (PSS). This initiative isn't just about numbers; it's a vital lifeline designed to offer stability and reassurance to those who toil in the fields, ensuring they receive a fair price for their hard work.

Picture this: farmers invest their time, effort, and resources, only to face the unpredictable whims of market prices, which can sometimes plummet below their production costs. That's where the PSS steps in. It's essentially a safety net, guaranteeing that farmers will receive the Minimum Support Price (MSP) set by the government, even if the open market decides to play hardball. For Bengal gram, this crucial MSP currently stands at a respectable Rs 5,450 per quintal. This isn't just a number; it’s a promise of financial security, shielding farmers from potential losses and encouraging continued cultivation of this essential pulse crop.

The scale of this operation is impressive. The official target is set at 1,00,770 metric tonnes, and the procurement process is set to kick off in the coming weeks, coinciding perfectly with the arrival of the rabi season harvest. To ensure this mammoth task runs smoothly, dedicated procurement agencies like the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (NAFED) and the Food Corporation of India (FCI) have been roped in. They'll be working diligently at various centres strategically spread across Karnataka, aiming to reach as many eligible farmers as possible.

So, what does this mean for farmers keen to participate? The process is streamlined to be as accessible as possible. Farmers simply need to register their details on the state's 'Raitha Mithra' portal. This digital step ensures transparency and efficiency, allowing for proper tracking and management of the procurement drive. Once registered, they can bring their produce to the designated centres, knowing that the government stands ready to purchase it at the guaranteed MSP.

This robust procurement plan will cast its net wide, benefiting farmers in key Bengal gram growing regions. Think districts like Kalaburagi, Vijayapura, Bagalkot, Gadag, Yadgir, Koppal, and Bidar, where these crops are a significant part of the agricultural landscape. But it doesn't stop there; areas like Chikkamagaluru, Davangere, Haveri, Chitradurga, Tumakuru, Kolar, Mysuru, Mandya, Shivamogga, and Ballari are also part of this crucial outreach. It’s a statewide effort, reflecting the government's commitment to bolster the agricultural economy right across Karnataka.

Ultimately, this initiative is more than just buying crops; it’s an investment in the resilience and sustainability of Karnataka's agricultural sector. By guaranteeing a stable income, the government is not only supporting individual farmers but also contributing to the state's overall food security and economic health. It's a clear signal that the welfare of our farmers remains a top priority, offering them a much-deserved sense of stability in an often-unpredictable world.