Madhya Pradesh to Extend Bhavantar Yojana to Mustard

In an important move aimed at supporting farmers, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced that the State government plans to extend the Bhavantar Yojana to mustard farmers. The proposal has been sent to the Central government and is expected to benefit nearly 80 lakh farmers across the State.

The announcement was made in the State Assembly and reflects the government’s focus on stabilising farm incomes amid fluctuating agricultural prices.

What is Bhavantar Yojana?

Bhavantar Yojana is a price support scheme that compensates farmers when they sell their crops below the government-declared Minimum Support Price (MSP) or procurement price. Under the scheme, the government pays farmers the difference between the market price and MSP.

Currently, the scheme is implemented for soybean farmers in Madhya Pradesh and has helped cushion them against market volatility.

Madhya Pradesh to Extend Bhavantar Yojana to Mustard

Support for Mustard Farmers

The proposed extension aims to protect mustard growers from price fluctuations. If the market price of mustard falls below MSP, the State government will transfer the differential amount directly to farmers’ bank accounts.

Mustard is a major rabi oilseed crop in Madhya Pradesh and plays a crucial role in edible oil production. The move is expected to stabilise farmer incomes and encourage oilseed cultivation in the State.

Assembly Protests Over Ladli Behna Scheme

Apart from the Bhavantar announcement, the Assembly session also witnessed political tensions over the Ladli Behna scheme. Congress MLAs demanded reopening of registrations for new beneficiaries and staged a walkout after a heated exchange with the Treasury Benches.

Women and Child Development Minister Nirmala Bhuria clarified that there is currently no proposal under consideration to reopen registrations.

About Ladli Behna Scheme

The Ladli Behna scheme was launched in March 2023 to provide direct financial assistance to women.

Key Features

Initially provided ₹1,000 per month to eligible women
Later increased to ₹1,250 and then ₹1,500
Beneficiaries: Women aged 21–60 years
Annual family income limit: ₹2.5 lakh

The Opposition claims that around 25 lakh newly eligible women are awaiting fresh registrations.

Important Facts for Exams

Bhavantar Yojana compensates farmers selling below MSP
Mustard is a key rabi oilseed crop
MSP is announced by the Government of India
Ladli Behna provides direct financial support to women
Madhya Pradesh is a major oilseed-producing state

Political and Economic Significance

The proposed expansion of Bhavantar Yojana highlights the State government’s emphasis on agricultural price support mechanisms. By shielding farmers from market volatility, the scheme aims to ensure stable farm incomes and strengthen the rural economy.

At the same time, debates around the Ladli Behna scheme underline its growing political and social importance. Welfare programs such as income support and price compensation continue to shape governance priorities and electoral discourse in Madhya Pradesh.