Patna: A crucial regional consultation on minimum support prices (MSP) for Rabi crops in the 2026–27 marketing season was held on Friday at Krishi Bhawan, Mithapur, Patna. The meeting was chaired by Prof Vijay Paul Sharma, Chairman of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
Addressing the gathering, Bihar Agriculture Secretary Sanjay Kumar Agrawal emphasised the need for a comprehensive evaluation of all cost components in MSP determination — including harvesting and transportation. “The biggest challenge in agriculture is ensuring sustainable income for farmers. To keep the sector vibrant and attract youth, equitable opportunities must be extended beyond sharecroppers,” he said.
The meeting focused on incorporating inputs specific to eastern states — Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal — into the pricing framework. Discussions aimed to bridge policy with on-ground realities, such as cost structures, market access, and environmental considerations.
Prof Sharma stressed that MSP remains a critical safeguard against market volatility, offering farmers a reliable income floor. He highlighted the urgency of boosting pulse and oilseed production to reduce India’s import dependency. “Farmers need both better prices and access to advanced technologies to enhance productivity and quality,” he noted.
Progressive farmers from across Bihar actively participated, voicing issues related to input costs, storage, and market reach. A makhana (fox nut) farmer specifically raised concerns about pricing and production costs for this regional crop.
Key attendees included senior officials from the Bihar Agriculture Department, CACP members, and representatives from states like Chhattisgarh and West Bengal, along with agricultural researchers and policy experts.
