Bhopal, April 24 (IANS) In his first address to the people of Madhya Pradesh, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Friday night outlined a series of policy measures aimed at strengthening the agricultural sector, with a sharp focus on procurement reforms, farmer income, and rural infrastructure.

Positioning farmers at the centre of the state’s development agenda, Yadav said, “True promises and concrete action, this is the resolve of our government,” while linking Madhya Pradesh’s growth to the national vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’.

The Chief Minister’s address prominently highlighted the increase in the wheat procurement target, raised from 78 lakh metric tonnes to 100 lakh metric tonnes following discussions with the Centre.

“This unprecedented increase is a tribute to the hard work of our farmers and a concrete step towards ensuring their income,” he said.

Alongside the enhanced target, Yadav announced operational changes to streamline procurement. He said slot bookings for wheat procurement at the Minimum Support Price have been opened for all farmers across the state, with the deadline extended to May 9.

“Procurement will now take place six days a week, with no holiday on Saturdays,” he added, indicating an effort to ease logistical bottlenecks during the peak season.

Focusing on structural reforms, the Chief Minister underscored a key decision on land acquisition compensation.

“Farmers will now receive up to four times the value of their land,” he said, calling it a significant step towards securing farmer interests.

The address also outlined measures to diversify farm income. Yadav announced a Rs 600 per quintal bonus on urad procurement and noted that mustard prices have strengthened following the extension of the Bhavantar scheme.

He stated that these interventions are designed to stabilise returns and reduce dependency on a single crop.

Highlighting infrastructure support, Yadav said the government is facilitating agricultural pump connections at a nominal cost and ensuring daytime electricity supply for irrigation.

He added that under the Krishak Mitra scheme, solar pumps are being provided with a 90 per cent subsidy to promote sustainable farming practices.

The Chief Minister also drew attention to improvements in allied sectors, particularly dairy.

He said that over 1,700 new milk cooperative societies have been established, with daily milk procurement exceeding 1 million kilograms.

“Payments exceeding Rs 1,600 crore have been made to milk-producing farmers,” he noted, indicating a parallel push to enhance rural incomes beyond crop cultivation.

Yadav said the state has secured sufficient stocks of urea and other fertilisers despite global challenges.

He added that the distribution system has been improved through technology, enabling farmers to access fertilisers more efficiently.

Reiterating the broader vision, the Chief Minister said, “The prosperity of farmers is the true strength of Madhya Pradesh,” while emphasising that the government’s policies are aimed at delivering long-term economic stability in rural areas.

He concluded by asserting that the state’s development model will remain anchored in farmer welfare.

“This is not merely a list of decisions, but a reflection of our commitment to stand with farmers in every situation,” Yadav added.

–IANS

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