Mustard MSP Rises: Farmers See Hope for Better Returns

The Solvent Extractors' Association of India (SEA) highlights the recent increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for rabi crops, particularly rapeseed and mustard, as a positive development. Approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, the MSP for mustard has been raised by ₹413 to ₹6,613 per quintal for the 2027-28 marketing season, with safflower also seeing an increase.

SEA President Angshu Mallick emphasized that improved price assurance for mustard could motivate farmers to expand cultivation and adopt advanced farming methods. However, he noted that the efficacy of MSP hinges on robust procurement, market accessibility, and the actual prices farmers receive. The association remains committed to enhancing oilseed productivity and domestic processing.

Regarding the current kharif season, oilseed acreage reached 196.66 lakh hectares as of October 2, a slight rise from the previous year, though individual crop performances varied. Soybean and groundnut acreages were stable, while sesame and sunflower showed increases. Castor, however, experienced a decline in cultivation area.

In terms of trade, India's exports of oilseeds from April to July 2026-27 were 2.64 lakh tonnes, valued at ₹3,324.05 crore. Imports amounted to 6.75 lakh tonnes, costing ₹3,733.55 crore, resulting in a trade deficit. Groundnut and sesame exports contributed positively, but soybean imports significantly impacted the balance, underscoring the need for domestic production enhancement.

Mallick also pointed to the dynamic global vegetable oil and oilseed sector, influenced by biofuel policies, trade shifts, and price volatility. He stressed the importance of proactive policy, diversified sourcing, increased domestic production, and value addition to navigate these changes and build a resilient edible oil ecosystem in India.