Government Approves MSP Hike for Rabi Crops 2025–26: Full List and Farmer Benefits

In a significant move aimed at bolstering farmer welfare and ensuring fair returns, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved an increase in the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for sixmajor rabi crops for the upcoming marketing season of 2025–26.

MSP Hike Overview:

The revised MSPs reflect a steady upward trend, aligning with the government's commitment to provide remunerative prices and promote crop diversification. Here's a breakdown of the new MSPs:

CropMSP 2024–25MSP 2025–26Increase
Wheat₹2,275₹2,425₹150
Barley₹1,850₹1,980₹130
Gram₹5,440₹5,650₹210
Lentil (Masoor)₹6,425₹6,700₹275
Rapeseed & Mustard₹5,650₹5,950₹300
Safflower₹5,800₹5,940₹140

Cost vs. Return: A Farmer-Friendly Formula:

This hike is in line with the 2018–19 Union Budget announcement, which promised MSPs at 1.5 times the all-India weighted average cost of production. The expected margins over production costs are:

Rapeseed & Mustard: 98%

Lentil: 89%

Gram & Barley: 60%

Safflower: 50%

These figures indicate a strong push toward ensuring profitability for farmers and encouraging crop diversification, especially in regions where monoculture dominates.

Government’s Stand:

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized that the MSP hike reflects the Modi government's commitment to farmer welfare. He stated: Ensuring remunerative prices for farmers is our

priority. The highest increase was seen in rapeseed and mustard, followed closely by lentils, both of which are crucial for oilseed and protein production respectively.

How Higher MSPs Empower Farmers and Strengthen Food Security:

Boosts Farmer Income: Higher MSPs directly translate to better earnings for farmers. Encourages Crop Diversification: Incentivizes farmers to move beyond wheat and rice.

Supports Food Security: Ensures stable production of pulses and oilseeds. Aligns with Inflation Trends: Helps offset rising input costs and inflationary pressures.

A Positive Step Toward Sustainable Agriculture: 

The MSP hike is a welcome step for India's agrarian economy, especially as farmers prepare for the rabi sowing season. It not only ensures economic stability for cultivators but also reflects a policy shift toward inclusive growth and agricultural sustainability.