Question : PROBLEMS OF FARMERS



(a) whether due to low price, farmers producing paddy, oil seeds and oil palm are facing several hardships;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the remedial steps taken/proposed to be taken by Government to redress the grievances of farmers?

Answer given by the minister


MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRIHUKUMDEO NARAYAN YADAV)

(a)&(b):Na, Sir. As compared to the previous year, the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) of paddy/rice, and oilseeds have shown a rising trend during the current year. The price of oil palm is also remunerative.

(c): To protect the interest of the cultivators of paddy and oilseeds against falling prices, the Government undertakes price support operations in the event of market prices touching/falling below Minimum Support Price (MSP). As regards oil palm, which is highly perishable in nature, the Government on specific request from the state Government implements the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) and the losses, if any, are shared equally between the centre and the state Governments.