MSP for produce of 'Annadata' periodically increased, says Sitharaman in Budget speech

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday said that MSP for produce of ‘Annadata’ are periodically increased and the government has been making provisions for basic necessities to enhance the real income in rural areas. “Every year under PM Kisan Samman Yojana, direct financial assistance is provided to 11.8 crore farmers, including marginal and small farmers,” she added. She said that crop insurance is given to 4 crore farmers under PM Fasal Bima Yojana. “These are assisting farmers in producing food for the country and for the world,” said the Finance Minister. Talking about the electronic national agricultural market, she said that the system has integrated 1,361 mandis and is providing services to 1.8 crore farmers with trading volume of 3 lakh crores of rupees. “The sector is poised for inclusive and higher growth,” she added. She said for further growth of agriculture sector, the government to further promote public and private investment in post-harvest activities. With inputs from agencies