IVPA Welcomes MSP Hike for Oilseeds, Urges Broader Support for Farmers and Processing Industry

The Indian Vegetable Oil Producers’ Association (IVPA) has welcomed the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA)’s recent decision to increase the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for kharif oilseeds for the 2025–26 marketing season, calling it a progressive step aligned with India’s long-term goals of reducing edible oil imports and improving farmer welfare.

Sudhakar Desai, President of IVPA, lauded the move, stating, “The MSP hike is a timely and strategic measure that reflects the Government’s commitment to enhancing oilseed cultivation in the country. It not only addresses the income security of farmers but also helps build a sustainable domestic ecosystem for edible oil production.”

However, Desai emphasized that to fully realize the benefits of the MSP increase, procurement interventions must extend beyond mustard to include other key oilseed crops such as soybean, groundnut, sunflower, and sesame. “Broadening procurement coverage will ensure price stability and equitable support to oilseed farmers across different regions,” he said.

The IVPA has also reiterated its call for the full-scale implementation of the Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS) under the Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA). The association believes that a robust and transparent PDPS mechanism can guarantee remunerative prices to farmers even when market prices fall below the MSP. Such a scheme, Desai said, would not only benefit farmers but also ensure a reliable flow of raw materials to India’s domestic oil processing mills.

“Encouraging oilseed cultivation through assured pricing and comprehensive support mechanisms can reduce import dependency, promote domestic processing, and ensure price stability across the edible oil value chain,” Desai added. “This, in turn, will support multiple allied industries and contribute to the broader goals of food and nutritional security.”

The IVPA reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with the Government in building a self-reliant and resilient oilseed economy in India, stating that multi-pronged support for oilseed farmers and processors is vital for achieving long-term agricultural and economic sustainability.

This article has been republished from The Krishak Jagat.com