Market Intervention Scheme for Potato Procurement in Uttar Pradesh
The Indian government has approved a detailed proposal from the Uttar Pradesh government to procure potatoes under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) for the 2025-26 agricultural year.
Procurement Details
- The Union Agriculture Ministry announced the procurement of 20 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of potatoes at a rate of ₹6.5 per kg (₹6,500.9 per metric tonne).
- This initiative is in response to falling potato prices due to factors like unseasonal rains.
Farmer's Perspective
- Farmers welcomed the decision but expressed concerns that the procurement price is less than half of their input cost.
- The Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader, Rakesh Tikait, suggested a support price of ₹15 per kg.
- Farmers highlighted that the input cost is ₹12 per kg, and demand the procurement price to be increased to ensure even a modest profit.
Government's Justification
- The decision aims to ensure farmers receive fair and remunerative prices for their produce.
- The government approved the proposal as a timely measure to empower potato-growing farmers by preventing forced sales at suboptimal prices amid market fluctuations.
Financial Implications
- The Government of India's projected financial contribution to this initiative is approximately ₹203.15 crore.
- This reflects strong central support for securing profitable returns and stabilizing the potato market dynamics within the state.
Overall, the intervention seeks to equilibrate the potato market in Uttar Pradesh, safeguarding the livelihoods and economic interests of the potato producers involved.
