Government Chickpeas Procurement Reaches 21.68 Tons

The government’s procurement of chickpeas has reached a significant milestone in the current rabi marketing season. Under the watchful eye of the Ministry of Agriculture’s agency, NAFED, a total of 21.68 tons of chickpeas have been purchased from farmers. Let’s delve into the details of this procurement, highlighting the quantities purchased in different states, the minimum support price, and the challenges faced by the wholesale market.

Procurement Details

Here is everything you need to know about current procurement:

1. State-wise Breakdown Of Procurement Figures

Out of 21.68 lakh tons of procured chickpeas, the highest purchases were made in Madhya Pradesh. Here’s the procurement data:

• Madhya Pradesh– 7.81 lakh tons
• Maharashtra– 7.12 lakh tons
• Gujarat- 3.23 lakh tons
• Rajasthan– 1.47 lakh tons
• Karnataka- 80,000 tons
• Andhra Pradesh- 65,000 tons
• Telangana- 50,000 tons
• Uttar Pradesh-11,000 tons

2. Previous Year Comparison

Compared to the 2021-22 rabi marketing season, there has been a slight decline in overall procurement. Last year, NAFED purchased approximately 25.93 lakh tons of chickpeas throughout the season, whereas in the current season, 83.63% of total procurement has already been made. This decrease in procurement can be attributed to various factors, including market conditions and fluctuations in demand.

3. Increasing Availability & Minimum Support Price                        

With the recent procurement of 21.68 lakh tons, NAFED’s total stock of chickpeas has reached 35.68 lakh tons. The Minimum Support Price for chickpeas has also witnessed an upward revision. This year, the price has been set at 5,335 rupees per quintal, an increase of 105 rupees from the previous year’s 5,230 rupees per quintal.

4. Market Challenges & Price Stagnation

Despite the government’s efforts in procuring a substantial amount of chickpeas, the wholesale market prices have not seen a significant improvement. The price has remained below the Minimum Support Price in most markets. This situation poses challenges for farmers who are unable to fetch fair prices for their produce. Addressing this issue is crucial to ensuring the economic well-being of farmers.

Market Outlook

To tackle the challenges faced in the wholesale market and support farmers, attention must be given to increasing the quantity of procurement by NAFED. The Ministry of Agriculture estimates the domestic chickpea production for the current year to be around 135.43 lakh tons, which is similar to the previous year’s production. As per the government mandate, procurement should cover up to 25% of the total production in any state. Therefore, approximately 33-34 lakh tons of chickpeas should be procured by the government. This will not only support farmers but also help maintain stable prices in the market.

OFB’s Insight 

The government’s procurement of chickpeas in the current rabi marketing season has shown promising results, with significant purchases made in various states. However, challenges persist in the form of stagnant wholesale market prices, which remain below the minimum support price. To alleviate these challenges and ensure the welfare of farmers, it is imperative to increase the quantity of procurement by NAFED. By doing so, the government can support the agricultural sector and maintain stability in chickpea prices, benefiting both farmers and consumers alike.

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