State and Union Authorities Ordered to Address Farmers' Grievances Over Crop Procurement at Minimum Support Price
In a significant move to address the persistent grievances of farmers, the Rajasthan High Court's Jaipur Bench has delivered a judgment aimed at safeguarding the livelihoods of farmers by ensuring the procurement of crops at the Minimum Support Price (MSP). The judgment was passed in the case of Rampal Jat v. State of Rajasthan, following a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) petition filed by Rampal Jat, highlighting the plight of farmers not receiving MSP for their produce.
The bench, comprising Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma and Justice Maneesh Sharma, underscored the importance of the welfare state in protecting farmers' interests. The court directed both state and union authorities to submit detailed reports and take necessary steps to ensure that farmers' crops such as Makka, Bajra, Moong, and Chana are procured at the MSP.
The court noted the genuine grievances raised by farmers, who despite producing crops that meet quality standards, are compelled to sell their produce at significantly lower prices due to the lack of procurement at MSP. This situation, as per the court, has been causing considerable financial loss to the farmers, undermining their ability to sustain their livelihoods.
In a bid to ensure accountability and effective resolution of the issues, the court ordered the inclusion of key agencies such as the Food Corporation of India (FCI), Krishi Vikas Sahakari Samiti, and Rajasthan State Co-operative Marketing Federation Ltd. (RAJFED) as parties to the petition. Notices have been issued to these entities to participate in the proceedings and address the concerns raised by the petitioner.
The court has also mandated the Additional Advocate General, Mr. G.S. Gill, and the Additional Solicitor General, Mr. Bharat Vyas, to present a status report along with actionable suggestions on resolving the procurement issues faced by farmers. The authorities have been given a deadline to submit their responses before the next hearing scheduled for July 30, 2026. The court has emphasized that no further extensions will be granted, highlighting the urgency of addressing this longstanding issue.
The judgment represents a crucial step towards ensuring that farmers receive fair compensation for their produce, reinforcing the principle that the welfare state must act decisively to protect its agricultural community.
Bottom line:-
Public Interest Litigation - Issues concerning farmers' welfare regarding procurement of crops at Minimum Support Price (MSP) - Authorities directed to take steps ensuring farmers' crops are purchased at MSP to safeguard their livelihood.
Statutory provision(s):
- Minimum Support Price (MSP)
- Public Interest Litigation (PIL)
Rampal Jat v. State of Raj, (Rajasthan)(Jaipur Bench)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2936481
