Integration of state procurement systems with the central monitoring platform was also discussed to improve transparency.

Farmers growing pulses and rabi crops are expected to benefit from a renewed push by the government to strengthen procurement under the Minimum Support Price system, as market prices of several rabi crops have slipped below MSP levels in multiple mandis.

Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan has asked cooperative agencies NAFED and NCCF to scale up their procurement operations in a more proactive and targeted manner. He stressed that buying operations should function as a coordinated field-level campaign rather than routine office-based activity.

According to officials, district-level procurement planning will now be emphasized, with agencies required to map expected crop arrivals and align procurement capacity accordingly. The focus crops include gram, lentil, urad and mustard, which are currently facing downward price pressure in several regions.

The Price Support Scheme framework allows designated agencies to step in when market prices fall below MSP, ensuring farmers are not forced to sell at a loss. In this context, the minister directed agencies to improve responsiveness and remove operational delays that hinder timely procurement.

A major emphasis was placed on payment timelines. Chauhan instructed that farmers should receive payments within 72 hours of procurement, calling delays a serious concern that directly affects rural livelihoods.

The review meeting also flagged state-level implementation gaps, including issues related to digital payment systems, data mismatches and delayed reporting in several states. Integration of state procurement systems with the central monitoring platform was also discussed to improve transparency.

The Centre has indicated it will work closely with states to address administrative bottlenecks and ensure smooth procurement operations during the ongoing procurement cycle.