Bhopal, June 17 (IANS) Reaffirming his government’s commitment to the farming community, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has assured that farmer welfare would remain at the centre of the state’s development agenda, highlighting recent decisions such as extending the agricultural loan repayment deadline and enhancing compensation for land acquired for development projects.

The Chief Minister’s remarks came after a delegation of the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh (BKS) met him in Bhopal late on Tuesday and held discussions for easing financial pressure on farmers and strengthening their economic security.

“The Year of Farmers’ Welfare is not merely a slogan but a commitment of our government. We will continue to take decisions that strengthen the economic position of farmers and ensure greater respect and facilities for them,” CM Yadav said.

During the meeting, representatives of the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh (BKS) submitted suggestions concerning procurement of moong and urad, simplification of registration procedures for farmers, and strengthening irrigation infrastructure through better integration of canals and ponds.

Chief Minister Yadav said the government was receptive to suggestions from farmer organisations and would continue to work in consultation with stakeholders to address issues affecting the agriculture sector.

“Our efforts are focused on ensuring that the benefits of government schemes reach farmers efficiently and that agriculture remains a profitable and sustainable occupation for future generations,” the Chief Minister said in a statement.

The interaction also underscored Madhya Pradesh’s growing prominence in foodgrain procurement. According to official figures, the state procured 104.36 lakh metric tonnes of wheat from 13.42 lakh farmers during the recently concluded procurement season.

While Madhya Pradesh ranked first in the country in terms of the number of farmers participating in wheat procurement, it stood second only to Punjab in total procurement volume, according to the government’s statement.

Farmers received Rs 2,625 per quintal, including a bonus of Rs 40 over the minimum support price, with payments exceeding Rs 27,196 crore already disbursed.

–IANS

pd/dpb