Karnataka revises maize procurement norms; raises cap to 50 quintals per farmer
Karnataka raised the MSP maize procurement limit to 50 quintals per farmer after grower protests. Purchases will follow FRUITS land records, allowing 12 quintals per acre. Poultry feed makers may buy directly from farmers at MSP, aiming to secure five lakh tonnes and improve prices alongside state cooperative procurement.
Following protests by maize growers over procurement limits, the Karnataka government on Sunday revised its order on Minimum Support Price (MSP) operations, increasing the maximum quantity that can be purchased from each farmer to 50 quintals.
A corrigendum issued in this regard stated that the earlier cap of 20 quintals per farmer had now been enhanced. Procurement would be based on landholding data available on the FRUITS platform, with up to 12 quintals per acre allowed and a ceiling of 50 quintals per farmer at the support price of ₹2,400 per quintal. The order states that priority will be accorded to procurement through Primary Agricultural Credit Societies located near distilleries.
The decision comes after maize growers staged demonstrations alleging “unfair treatment” in procurement operations and demanded wider coverage under the MSP window.
Directly from growers
The government had recently permitted poultry feed manufacturers to directly buy maize from growers. In a separate order issued on December 4, the government had allowed poultry feed producers to procure maize directly from farmers at MSP rates for the 2025–26 kharif marketing season. The move is expected to ensure better price realisation, reduce intermediary involvement, and expand marketing channels for growers.
The decision followed a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah where industry representatives were urged to source an estimated five lakh tonnes of maize. The Karnataka Poultry Farmers and Breeders Association has committed to initially procure 5,000 tonnes with a 20% advance payment.
Procurement will adhere to MSP quality specifications with a maximum moisture content of 12% for poultry feed suitability. The government said the latest measure would run parallel with procurement by the Karnataka State Co-operative Marketing Federation, which supplies maize to distilleries.
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Source : The Hindu
