Madhya Pradesh to Extend Bhavantar Yojana to Mustard

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced in the State Assembly that the government plans to extend the Bhavantar Yojana to mustard farmers. The proposal has been sent to the Centre and is expected to benefit nearly 80 lakh farmers across the State.

The Bhavantar Yojana compensates farmers for the difference between the market price and the government-declared Minimum Support Price (MSP) or procurement price when crops are sold below MSP. The scheme currently covers soyabean farmers in Madhya Pradesh.

Support Mechanism for Mustard Growers

The proposed extension aims to shield mustard farmers from price volatility. Under the scheme, if the market rate falls below the MSP, the State government pays the differential amount directly to farmers.

The move comes amid concerns over fluctuating agricultural commodity prices and is intended to stabilise farm incomes. Mustard is a key rabi crop in Madhya Pradesh, contributing significantly to edible oil production.

Assembly Protests over Ladli Behna Scheme

The Assembly session also witnessed protests by Congress MLAs demanding fresh registrations under the Ladli Behna scheme. Opposition members staged a walkout following a heated exchange with the Treasury Benches.

Women and Child Development Minister Nirmala Bhuria stated that there is currently no proposal under consideration to reopen registrations for new beneficiaries.

Features of Ladli Behna Scheme

The Ladli Behna scheme was launched in March 2023 with a monthly allowance of ₹1,000 for eligible women. The amount was later increased to ₹1,250 and subsequently to ₹1,500 under the present government.

Eligible beneficiaries are women aged between 21 and 60 years with an annual family income below ₹2.5 lakh. The Opposition alleged that around 25 lakh women who recently attained eligibility are awaiting registration.

Important Facts for Exams

• Bhavantar Yojana compensates farmers for selling below MSP.
• Mustard is a major rabi oilseed crop in Madhya Pradesh.
• Ladli Behna scheme provides direct monthly financial assistance to women.
• MSP is announced by the Government of India for key agricultural crops.

Political and Economic Implications

The proposed expansion of Bhavantar Yojana reflects the State’s focus on agricultural price support mechanisms. Simultaneously, debates over the Ladli Behna scheme highlight its political and social significance, as welfare measures continue to shape electoral and governance discourse in Madhya Pradesh.