Maharashtra Approves Large-Scale Tur (Arhar) Procurement at MSP to Support Pulse Farmers

The government has approved a large-scale procurement plan for Tur (arhar) in Maharashtra under the Minimum Support Price (MSP) system. This step is aimed at protecting farmers from falling market prices during the peak arrival season of pulses. By ensuring assured procurement, the authorities are providing farmers with price security and encouraging them to continue cultivating pulse crops without fear of financial loss. This move comes at a crucial time when many farmers are facing rising input costs and uncertain market demand.

Tur is one of the most important pulse crops in Maharashtra and plays a major role in the income of small and marginal farmers. Fluctuations in market prices often lead to distress sales, where farmers are forced to sell their produce below production cost. With MSP-based procurement, farmers can now sell their Tur at a fixed government-declared price, reducing dependency on private traders and middlemen. This helps improve transparency and fairness in agricultural marketing.

To ensure smooth implementation, procurement centers will be made accessible across major Tur-growing districts of the state. Digital registration systems are being promoted so that farmers can easily enroll and track their sales. The use of technology in procurement will help reduce delays in payments and improve efficiency in handling large volumes of produce. Timely payment directly into farmers’ bank accounts will further strengthen trust in government support mechanisms.

This procurement initiative is also expected to help stabilize the pulse market. When market prices fall sharply due to excess supply, government procurement acts as a buffer and prevents price crashes. At the same time, it supports national food security by strengthening domestic pulse availability and reducing over-dependence on imports. A stable pulse sector benefits both farmers and consumers by maintaining balanced supply and reasonable prices.

Farmer organizations and agricultural experts have welcomed the decision, stating that it will provide much-needed relief to pulse growers in Maharashtra. The policy is seen as a positive step towards strengthening the rural economy and promoting sustainable agriculture. By offering assured prices and structured market access, the government is encouraging farmers to continue pulse cultivation, which also improves soil health through natural nitrogen fixation and supports long-term agricultural sustainability.