Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has stressed 100 per cent utilisation of funds allocated to states for farmers’ welfare by the 31st of next month. He said this while holding a virtual meeting in New Delhi with Agriculture Ministers and senior officials of several states, including Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Haryana, to review the progress of the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana and the Krishi Unnati Scheme. The Minister said that timely and efficient utilisation of central funds is essential to ensure that benefits reach farmers at the grassroots level.

 

Mr Chouhan reiterated that under 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 farmers receive the Minimum Support Price.

 

Mr Chouhan 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 the move will ensure assured markets and prices for farmers while strengthening India’s self-reliance in pulse production. The Union Minister said coordinated efforts between the Centre and the states are key to building a strong, resilient and prosperous agricultural sector.