Centre Hikes MSP on Jute, Promises 66.8% Returns for farmers

The Centre has made a significant decision to increase the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for raw jute by Rs 315, setting it at Rs 5,650 per quintal for the 2025-26 marketing season. This move, approved by the Union Cabinet, aims to provide farmers with a return of 66.8 per cent over the all-India weighted average cost of production, thus encouraging farmers to invest in jute cultivation.

Growth of MSP for Raw Jute Since 2014-15

Since the 2014-15 marketing season, the MSP for raw jute has seen a consistent upward trend, increasing by 2.35 times. This reflects the government’s sustained efforts to support jute farmers, ensuring they are adequately compensated for their efforts and incentivizing them to continue producing this essential crop.

MSP Increase for 2025-26 Season

The 2025-26 MSP hike is significant as it surpasses the increase made during the 2024-25 season, when the MSP was increased by Rs 285, reaching Rs 5,335 per quintal. The decision to increase the MSP by Rs 315 for the upcoming season is expected to encourage higher jute production, addressing India’s low jute output.

National Health Mission (NHM) Extension

In addition to the jute MSP increase, the Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the National Health Mission (NHM) for an additional five years. The NHM has been a cornerstone of India’s health infrastructure development, providing essential healthcare services, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Achievements of the NHM

Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted several historic milestones achieved by the National Health Mission over the past decade. One of the key achievements was the addition of nearly 1.2 million healthcare workers to the NHM workforce between 2021 and 2022. This significant expansion of the healthcare workforce has strengthened the country’s ability to provide timely medical care to millions of citizens, especially in rural regions.

Additionally, Goyal underscored the NHM’s crucial role in India’s battle against the Covid-19 pandemic, where it played a pivotal role in vaccination drives, healthcare service delivery, and public health awareness campaigns.

Summary of the News

Aspect	Details
Why in News	The Centre has approved an increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for raw jute and extended the National Health Mission (NHM).
MSP for Raw Jute Increased	The Union Cabinet has raised the MSP for raw jute by Rs 315, setting it at Rs 5,650 per quintal for the 2025-26 marketing season.
Growth of MSP (2014-15 to 2025-26)	Since 2014-15, the MSP for raw jute has increased by 2.35 times, reflecting continuous government support for jute farmers.
Comparison to 2024-25 MSP	The MSP hike for 2025-26 surpasses the Rs 285 increase in 2024-25, when it reached Rs 5,335 per quintal. The new hike aims to encourage higher jute production.
National Health Mission (NHM) Extended	The Union Cabinet approved the continuation of the NHM for another five years, further supporting health infrastructure, especially in rural areas.
Achievements of NHM	The NHM added 1.2 million healthcare workers between 2021-2022 and played a key role in the country’s Covid-19 response.
Key Role in Covid-19	The NHM was pivotal in vaccination drives, healthcare delivery, and public health awareness during the pandemic.