Several key government ministries and departments expressed concerns over the proposed hike in minimum support price (MSP) for kharif crops in the 2023-24 season, according to data obtained through the Right to Information Act.
The Department of Expenditure, Niti Aayog, and the Department of Commerce cited worries about inflation, World Trade Organization obligations, labor shortages, and rising wages. Despite these concerns, the Cabinet approved the MSP increase ranging from 6% to 10%. The move aims to align with the Union Budget's goal of providing farmers fair remuneration. Balancing these concerns with the need for equitable earnings for farmers remains a challenge for the government.