Wed Oct 16 10:03:34 UTC 2024: ## Government to Announce 5% Increase in Wheat MSP for 2025-26

**New Delhi:** The Indian government is set to announce a 5% increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of wheat for the upcoming marketing season 2025-26 (April-June), raising it to Rs 2400 per quintal. This decision, informed by market availability, global wheat prices, and moderating inflation, aims to ensure steady wheat supply and support farmers.

The move follows a record wheat harvest in 2023-24, reaching 113.29 million tonnes, driven by a 7.05% increase in MSP last year. The Food Corporation of India (FCI) currently holds a comfortable 23.85 million tonnes of wheat stock, exceeding the buffer requirement of 20.52 million tonnes for October 1st. The government has also allocated 2.5 million tonnes of wheat for market intervention to control price fluctuations.

While the MSP for wheat is set to increase, other rabi crops like mustard, chana, and lentils will also see revised MSPs, announced by the Cabinet soon. The MSP for oilseeds, particularly mustard, is likely to see a moderate hike as remunerative prices have increased significantly since 2017-18.

However, despite substantial MSP increases in oilseeds and pulses in recent years, the focus remains on improving productivity through better seeds and farming practices. Officials highlighted the need to address stagnant productivity in oilseeds by introducing high-yielding, climate-resilient varieties and expanding cultivation areas. In pulses, the government plans to actively procure from farmers when prices fall below the MSP.

The MSP for gram is also expected to see a moderate increase, despite a 10% decline in production due to unfavorable weather conditions. The Cabinet will announce the MSP for all rabi crops shortly before sowing commences next month.

**Bullet Train Progress:** Meanwhile, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project continues to make significant progress. The Vapi station, showcasing India’s advancements in railway infrastructure, is now operational, along with noise barriers. The project has completed eight stations in Gujarat out of a planned twelve, alongside viaducts over 11 rivers and four steel bridges. The project is expected to revolutionize travel and commerce in Gujarat.

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