In response to farmers' demands, the Haryana government initiated the procurement of bajra (pearl millet) eight days ahead of the scheduled date of October 1. This decision was prompted by the relatively low market prices of the Kharif crop, which were hovering around ₹1,800 to ₹1,900 per quintal. The procurement process commenced in 35 mandis (marketplaces) across four districts: Rewari, Bhiwani, Charkhi Dadri, Kanina in Mahendergarh, and the Kosli area in Rewari.
Despite the drizzling rain in some areas, farmers made their way to the mandis, where the Haryana State Cooperative Supply and Marketing Federation (HAFED) had made suitable arrangements. Facilities like generators, lights, drinking water, sanitation, and tarpaulins were provided to ensure the protection of crops from rain damage.
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On the first day in Bhiwani alone, nearly 700 quintals of bajra were procured. The government spokesperson stated that fair average quality (FAQ) millet would be purchased at the prevailing market rate from registered and verified farmers through the Meri Fasal-Mera Byora portal. The difference between the mandi rate and the minimum support price (MSP) will be compensated to the farmers under the Bhavantar Bharpayee Yojana, a state government scheme. The minimum support price for bajra is ₹2,200 per quintal, with an additional ₹300 per quintal provided under this scheme.
Farmers can expect prompt payment, with the crop purchase amount directly deposited into their bank accounts within 72 hours. This early procurement aims to alleviate the financial concerns of farmers and provide them with fair prices for their produce.
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