The review meeting, held in New Delhi, focused on procurement arrangements for pulses and oilseeds under the Price Support Scheme (PSS) and the Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF). The Minister directed officials to make MSP procurement more robust, transparent and time-bound, ensuring farmers receive fair prices without delay.
Special emphasis was placed on increasing production and procurement of key pulses such as tur (arhar), urad and masoor to reduce import dependence and enhance nutritional security. Discussions covered strategies to improve agronomic practices, ensure availability of quality seeds, expand technical support, and strengthen marketing and procurement systems.
Chouhan stressed that procurement centres must be adequately equipped and efficiently managed to avoid inconvenience to farmers. He called for timely payments, better infrastructure and clear communication of procurement schedules to build farmers’ trust in the government system.
The proposed Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission aims to make India Atmanirbhar in pulses production, stabilise domestic prices, reduce volatility and ensure sustained income growth for farmers.
The Minister also underlined the need for closer coordination with state governments and improved storage infrastructure to handle MSP-procured produce safely and efficiently. Senior ministry officials and NAFED leadership attended the meeting and briefed him on procurement progress and operational challenges.
