Topic: Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices
5. The minimum support price (MSP) regime is fraught with limitations which affects the price realization by the farmers and thus is in need for reforms to make it more robust and effective. Analyse. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question:
The ongoing struggle of farmers is not for political power. It is a struggle to transform Indian agriculture and the livelihoods of the farming majority which are in ruins in most parts of the country.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about additional measures that are required for price realisation to make MSP more effective.
Directive word:
Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Start by writing about MSP, its aims and objectives.
Body:
Next, mention the limitations associated with MSP. Non-realisation of Price, Lack of procurement, only beneficial for selected crops, Lack of quality control and payment immediacy etc.
Next, write about the systemic measures that are needed for farmers to get remunerative prices. Increasing procurement efficacy, increasing awareness level of farmer and considering price deficiency payments etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude with way forward.
