Rabi MSP 2027-28: Cabinet Raises Support Prices
Why in the news
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved higher Minimum Support Prices for six rabi crops for Rabi Marketing Season 2027-28 on 30 September 2026. Oilseeds and pulses got larger increases than wheat.
Key facts
- Six crops are covered: wheat, barley, gram, lentil, rapeseed and mustard, and safflower.
- Safflower recorded the highest absolute increase at Rs 675 per quintal.
- Wheat has the highest expected margin over cost at 106%; safflower has the lowest at 50%.
- The decision follows the 1.5 times cost of production principle announced in Union Budget 2018-19.
MSP table (Rs per quintal)
| Crop | 2026-27 | 2027-28 | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wheat | 2,585 | 2,610 | 25 |
| Barley | 2,150 | 2,286 | 136 |
| Gram | 5,875 | 5,958 | 83 |
| Lentil (masur) | 7,000 | 7,390 | 390 |
| Rapeseed and mustard | 6,200 | 6,613 | 413 |
| Safflower | 6,540 | 7,215 | 675 |
Expected margins over the weighted average production cost: wheat 106%, rapeseed and mustard 96%, lentil 92%, gram 59%, barley 58%, safflower 50%.
About MSP
Minimum Support Price is the price at which the government is ready to buy crops from farmers, providing an assured floor price. It is announced for the marketing season ahead of sowing, to give farmers a signal for planting decisions.
Exam angle
- Safflower has the largest rise in rupee terms; wheat has the smallest.
- Lentil at Rs 7,390 is the highest MSP among the six crops listed in absolute terms.
- Higher rises for pulses and oilseeds support crop diversification.