Karnataka CM Urges Immediate MSP Action to Avert Farmer Crisis

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to swiftly approve the MSP procurement of toor dal. With peak market arrivals nearing, any delay could lead to farmer unrest and economic distress, hindering trust in the MSP policy framework.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has made an urgent appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the immediate approval of Minimum Support Price (MSP) procurement for toor dal through the deployment of two central agencies. This comes as the state approaches peak market arrivals, raising concerns of potential farmer unrest.

In a letter dated December 8, Siddaramaiah highlighted that Karnataka's farmers are at risk of severe financial setbacks and loss of trust in MSP as a policy instrument should the Union Government delay their response further. Despite a formal proposal being submitted, the state awaits approval as market prices waver below MSP levels.

With over 16.80 lakh hectares dedicated to toor dal production and impending peak arrivals, Siddaramaiah emphasized that this is not just an economic issue but a test of public trust. He stressed the need for federal cooperation to protect farmers' livelihoods and uphold national food security commitments.

(With inputs from agencies.)