Current Market Conditions
Soybean prices in Maharashtra have fallen significantly, creating a challenging situation for farmers. While onion prices are rising rapidly in the state, soybean prices have decreased drastically. In many mandis, soybean prices have dropped below the Minimum Support Price (MSP), with prices ranging from $0,36 to $0,42 per kg. Farmers are expressing their frustration as they struggle to receive fair compensation for their crops.
Government MSP and Farmer Reactions
The central government increased the MSP for soybean by $0,036, setting it at $0,55 per kg for the 2023-24 season. Despite this, Maharashtra farmers are continuously receiving prices lower than the MSP. The minimum price of soybean in Lasalgaon Vinchur is only $0,36, in Lasalgaon it is $0,37, and in Vani Mandi, it is $0,40. This disparity has led to significant resentment among farmers against the government.
Historic Price Decline and Soybean’s Role in Edible Oil
In 2021 and 2022, soybean prices ranged from $0,96 to $1,32 per kg. However, a substantial decline followed, leaving farmers without fair prices last year as well. Soybean is a crucial pulse-oilseed and cash crop, contributing 42 percent to India’s total oilseed crops and 22 percent to the country’s total edible oil production. Scientists at the Soybean Research Center in Indore highlight soybean’s potential to make India self-reliant in edible oil.
The current market scenario in Maharashtra reveals significant challenges for soybean farmers as prices continue to fall below the MSP. Despite the crop’s importance and potential, farmers are not receiving adequate compensation, leading to widespread discontent.