Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Tuesday told the Lok Sabha that farmers’ incomes have doubled under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asserting that the government is committed to ensuring fair prices and financial security for the country’s farmers in every situation.
Replying to questions in the House, the Minister said the government has created a “strong security shield” for farmers through measures such as Minimum Support Price (MSP) procurement, PM-AASHA, crop insurance schemes, and price difference payment mechanisms.
He emphasised that the Centre has implemented MSP at cost plus 50 per cent, ensuring better returns for farmers. “The NDA government led by PM Modi is committed to giving farmers the full value of their sweat,” Chouhan said, adding that record procurement at MSP has ensured direct benefits to farmers across crops.
Highlighting key achievements, Chouhan said agricultural production has increased by nearly 44 per cent in recent years, supported by initiatives aimed at boosting both productivity and income. He noted that government intervention has expanded beyond traditional crops like wheat and paddy to include pulses, oilseeds, fruits, and vegetables, protecting farmers from price volatility.
The Minister underlined the importance of effective procurement, stating that merely announcing MSP is not enough unless it is backed by actual purchases. He said agencies such as the Food Corporation of India (FCI), NAFED, and state bodies are working in coordination to ensure procurement centres are opened wherever needed.
Referring to the Pradhan Mantri Annadatta Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA), Chouhan said the scheme provides income security for crops that often face price drops. It includes direct procurement, price deficiency payments, and other protective mechanisms to safeguard farmers’ earnings.
On crop insurance, he highlighted the success of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, noting that farmers have paid around ₹36,055 crore in premiums while receiving claims worth approximately ₹1.92 lakh crore. He added that technological tools such as satellite-based remote sensing are improving transparency and accuracy in loss assessment.
Chouhan also cited the use of digital systems for swift relief during natural calamities. In Maharashtra, he said, about ₹14,000 crore was transferred directly to farmers’ accounts within five days using Farmer ID systems.
The Minister said the government is also supporting farmers growing perishable produce through the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS), which ensures price support for fruits and vegetables. In cases of low market prices, the Centre is even bearing transportation costs to help farmers access better markets.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Chouhan said the Centre will continue to stand firmly with farmers. “Farmers will get fair price in every situation,” he said, adding that protecting farmers’ income and dignity remains a top priority.
