Hyderabad: Minister for Agriculture Tummala Nageswara Rao urged the Centre to take full responsibility for MSP crop procurement, citing financial strain on states.
Speaking on Friday, the Agriculture Minister said the Union government announces MSP but leaves procurement to states. He said this practice places a heavy burden on state finances.
Tummala called on the Centre to procure all crops covered under MSP. He said farmers often do not receive the promised price despite official announcements.
MSP crop procurement burden on states
Tummala said the lack of follow-up after MSP announcements affects farmers in the open market. He added that states like Telangana step in to procure crops at MSP to prevent losses.
However, he said this responsibility costs the state ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 crore annually. He noted that the Centre does not provide financial support for this burden.
The Minister reiterated that MSP crop procurement should be handled entirely by the Union government.
Meanwhile, Tummala held a review meeting at the Secretariat with Kodanda Reddy, commission members, scientists, and officials.
The meeting focused on paddy variety selection for the upcoming Kharif season, seed availability, and cultivation plans.
Tummala said farmers faced difficulties last year due to the presence of 33 fine-grain varieties. He noted that this led to issues during sales and delays in bonus payments.
Tummala directed officials to limit the number of varieties this season. He said only high-yield and market-demand varieties should be supplied.
Officials were asked to ensure seed availability by May 15. The Minister stressed that better planning would support farmers and improve returns.
🌾 Kharif 2026: Focus on Profitable Paddy Cultivation
Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao holds key review on fine paddy varieties 🚜
🔹 Only high-yield & high-demand seed varieties to be supplied
🔹 Farmers’ preferred seeds to be prioritized 👍
🔹 Limited varieties this… pic.twitter.com/5BtBMXX05K— IPRDepartment (@IPRTelangana) April 24, 2026