The SKM coalition called the hike in MSP for rabi crops an insult

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) farmers' union announced that it does not accept the government-set minimum support prices (MSP) for rabi crops for the 2027–28 marketing season. The organization described the 25 rupees per quintal increase in the MSP for wheat as an insult to grain producers. According to SKM's calculations, this increase is equivalent to 25 paise per kilogram.

As a form of protest, SKM called on farmers and rural youth to read the government order aloud, burn copies of it in villages, and participate in protests at district headquarters. The organization questioned the authorities' claim that the new MSPs provide a 106 percent return over production costs. According to SKM, the government's calculations are based on the A2+FL formula, whereas the comprehensive C2 cost, which accounts for land rent and interest on owned capital, should be used to determine the MSP.

The Union Cabinet approved the MSP for six rabi crops for the 2027–28 season on September 30, raising the price of wheat to 2,610 rupees per quintal. According to SKM's estimates, this amount is 134 rupees lower than their own C2+50 percent calculation of 2,744 rupees, whereas the organization demands setting support at 3,418 rupees per quintal.

SKM pointed out that the price recommendations of several state governments were ignored by the Centre and CACP. In addition, the union criticized the methodology for calculating farm costs, pointing to the use of the 2011–12 index, rising diesel prices, and increased labor expenses.

The organization put forward demands for a legal guarantee of MSP at the C2+50 percent level, an immediate revision of prices to the demanded levels, consideration of state recommendations, and the freedom to pay bonuses. Furthermore, SKM insists on canceling the diesel price hike and ensuring state procurement of every crop in every state. The agitation, as SKM states, will continue until legal guarantees for MSP are secured.