MSP 2026: Big Price Increase Announced for Key Crops – Check New Rates Per Quintal 

Introduction

Farming in India has never been easy. Over the past few years, farmers have faced rising input costs, unpredictable weather, and fluctuating market prices. Expenses on fertilisers, seeds, diesel, and labour have gone up, while crop prices in open markets often fail to keep pace.

Against this backdrop, the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 2026–27 comes as important relief. The government has announced notable MSP hikes for major rabi crops, aiming to ensure better returns and income security for farmers. These revised prices will directly affect what farmers earn per quintal in the upcoming procurement season.

In this article, we explain what MSP is, which crops have seen price increases, how much farmers will now receive per quintal, who is eligible for MSP procurement, and how farmers can actually benefit from these announced rates.

MSP 2026 Explained in Simple Words 🌱

The Minimum Support Price (MSP) is the minimum rate at which the government promises to buy certain crops from farmers. It acts as a safety net. If market prices fall, farmers can still sell their produce at MSP instead of suffering losses.

For the 2026–27 rabi season, the MSP has been revised based on recommendations from the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP). The government has continued its policy of fixing MSP at at least 1.5 times the average cost of production, giving farmers a reasonable margin.

MSP 2026–27: Crop-Wise Price Hike (Per Quintal) 📊

Here are the officially approved MSP rates for major rabi crops, along with the increase compared to last year:

Key takeaway:
Safflower has received the highest increase, while wheat continues to offer a stable and reliable return for farmers across many states.

Important MSP Timeline Farmers Should Know 📅

Knowing the MSP rate alone is not enough. Timing is equally important.

• MSP approval: October 2025

• Rabi procurement begins: Mostly November–December 2025

• Wheat marketing season: From April 2026

• Peak rabi harvest: March to May 2026

• Procurement for other crops: As per state notifications

👉 Practical advice: Procurement dates can differ from state to state. Farmers should regularly check announcements from their local mandi or agriculture office.

Who Can Benefit from MSP Procurement? 🌾

Not every farmer automatically gets MSP. Some conditions apply.

1. Eligible Crops

Only crops officially notified under MSP for that season are procured. For 2026–27, rabi crops listed above are covered.

2. Quality Standards

Produce must meet the quality norms set by procurement agencies. Crops that are damaged or below grade may be rejected or paid less.

3. Documents Required

Farmers generally need:

• Aadhaar or valid ID

• Bank account details

• Land ownership or tenancy records (as required locally)

👉 Helpful tip: Farmers should complete registration with mandi boards or state procurement portals well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

How Farmers Can Check MSP Rates and Get Help 📲

Farmers can access official MSP information through multiple channels:

• Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare website

• Official press releases and MSP notifications

• Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs)

• Local mandi offices and agriculture extension officers

Printed MSP lists are also available at many mandis for easy reference.

What Happens After MSP Is Announced? 🔄

Once MSP rates are declared, the process moves into action.

Procurement at Mandis

Farmers bring their crops to designated procurement centres. The produce is checked for quality and weight before acceptance.

Payment Process

Payments are usually made directly to farmers’ bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Some states may offer bonuses over MSP.

Storage and Distribution

Procured crops are stored by agencies like FCI and state bodies and later used for public distribution and food security programs.

The broader goal is to protect farmer income while ensuring adequate food stocks for the country.

MSP 2026: Frequently Asked Questions ❓

What is MSP in simple terms?
It is the minimum price at which the government buys certain crops to protect farmers from market losses.

Why has MSP been increased for 2026–27?
To compensate for rising input costs and ensure farmers earn at least 1.5 times their cost of production.

Are all crops covered under MSP?
No. Only selected crops announced by the government each season are covered.

Where can farmers sell crops at MSP?
At designated procurement centres and mandis notified by central or state agencies.

Will higher MSP increase food prices?
MSP may have a limited impact on prices, but its main purpose is farmer income protection.

Final Thoughts 🌾

The MSP 2026 hikes reflect the government’s continued focus on farmer welfare and income stability. With improved prices for crops like wheat, chana, mustard, and safflower, farmers now have clearer signals for planning cultivation and sales.

Understanding MSP rates, procurement rules, and timelines can help farmers make better decisions and avoid distress sales. Staying informed is just as important as growing a good crop.

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