Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has stressed the need for 100 per cent utilisation of funds allocated to states for farmers’ welfare by the 31st of March this year.

He made the remarks while chairing a virtual meeting in New Delhi yesterday with Agriculture Ministers and senior officials from several states. The meeting reviewed the progress of the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana and the Krishi Unnati Scheme.

The Agriculture Minister said timely and efficient use of central funds is essential to ensure that benefits reach farmers at the grassroots level.

Mr Chouhan reaffirmed that under the Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan, the Centre is providing strong price support to farmers.

For the Rabi 2026 season, large-scale procurement of gram, mustard and lentil has been approved under the Price Support Scheme in states such as Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Gujarat to ensure that farmers receive the Minimum Support Price.

The Minister also announced that under the Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission, the entire quantity of pigeon pea, urad and lentil offered by pre-registered farmers will be procured through central nodal agencies by 2030-31. He said this step will ensure assured markets and prices for farmers and strengthen India’s self-reliance in pulse production.

Mr Chouhan added that coordinated efforts between the Centre and the states are key to building a strong, resilient and prosperous agricultural sector.