Evaluate the effectiveness of MSP in mitigating agrarian distress. Assess whether its benefits are equitably distributed across regions and farm sizes. Propose corrective measures to enhance inclusivity and efficiency.
Kartavya Desk Staff
Topic: Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices;
Topic: Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices;
Q5. Evaluate the effectiveness of MSP in mitigating agrarian distress. Assess whether its benefits are equitably distributed across regions and farm sizes. Propose corrective measures to enhance inclusivity and efficiency. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question MSP continues to shape India’s response to agrarian distress while raising concerns about equity, fiscal sustainability and regional imbalance. Key Demand of the question The question requires evaluation of MSP’s effectiveness in mitigating agrarian distress, assessment of whether benefits are equitably distributed across regions and farm sizes, and suggestion of corrective measures to enhance inclusivity and efficiency. Structure of the Answer: Introduction Briefly situate MSP within the broader framework of income stabilisation, food security and agricultural policy objectives. Body Role in mitigating agrarian distress: Indicate how assured pricing and procurement reduce income volatility and protect farmers from distress sales. Equity of distribution: Point to regional concentration of procurement and unequal access among small and marginal farmers affecting distributive fairness. Corrective measures: Suggest expansion of decentralised procurement or complementary income support mechanisms to improve inclusivity and efficiency. Conclusion Conclude with a forward-looking note on balancing price support with structural agricultural reforms for sustainable and equitable growth.
Why the question
MSP continues to shape India’s response to agrarian distress while raising concerns about equity, fiscal sustainability and regional imbalance.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires evaluation of MSP’s effectiveness in mitigating agrarian distress, assessment of whether benefits are equitably distributed across regions and farm sizes, and suggestion of corrective measures to enhance inclusivity and efficiency.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction Briefly situate MSP within the broader framework of income stabilisation, food security and agricultural policy objectives.
• Role in mitigating agrarian distress: Indicate how assured pricing and procurement reduce income volatility and protect farmers from distress sales.
• Equity of distribution: Point to regional concentration of procurement and unequal access among small and marginal farmers affecting distributive fairness.
• Corrective measures: Suggest expansion of decentralised procurement or complementary income support mechanisms to improve inclusivity and efficiency.
Conclusion Conclude with a forward-looking note on balancing price support with structural agricultural reforms for sustainable and equitable growth.