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Increase in Ragi Price:
2024-25 marks a significant milestone in millet farming in India, particularly in Odisha, where ragi (finger millet) has always been a staple crop for tribal communities and small-scale farmers. The announcement by the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to raise the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of ragi to an unprecedented ₹4290 per quintal from ₹3846, highlights the growing recognition of millet’s importance in promoting sustainable agriculture, boosting rural livelihoods, and fostering economic equity.
The substantial hike in MSP of Ragi in Odisha, which includes an additional enhancement of ₹210 per quintal under the Shree Anna Abhiyan, reflects the government’s dedication to making agriculture more remunerative and millet cultivation more attractive to farmers. Let us delve deeper into how this landmark decision empowers Odisha’s millet farmers and reshapes the agricultural landscape.
Context of Ragi Farming in Odisha:
Odisha has long been synonymous with ragi cultivation, particularly in tribal regions like Koraput, Malkangiri, Sundergarh, and Rayagada. For generations, ragi has been more than just a crop; it is intricately woven into the diet, culture, and traditions of tribal communities. Known for its resilience to harsh climates and minimal water requirements, ragi thrives on the red and lateritic soils of Odisha, making it an ideal crop for the state’s small and marginal farmers.
Despite its cultural and nutritional significance, ragi cultivation faced neglect in the past due to low market prices and limited demand. Farmers were often forced to sell their produce at a paltry ₹15-20 per kg, which barely covered their production costs. The Odisha Millet Mission, now renamed Shree Anna Abhiyan, played a pivotal role in reversing this trend by revitalizing millet farming and introducing measures to support farmers from cultivation to marketing.
From ₹2897 to ₹4500: A Journey of Hope:
In 2018-19, the MSP of ragi was set at ₹2897 per quintal, offering some relief to farmers struggling with low returns. Fast forward to 2024-25, the MSP has witnessed a remarkable increase to ₹4500 per quintal, a move that reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening rural economies and promoting nutritional security. This steady increase in MSP, coupled with targeted interventions by the Odisha government, has profoundly impacted the lives of ragi farmers.

Odisha is the only state providing comprehensive support to millet farmers, from input assistance to marketing their produce. The government’s decision to provide additional input assistance of ₹800 per quintal for paddy set a precedent, prompting similar support for millet farmers. This progressive approach has enhanced financial security, increased incomes, and encouraged sustainable agricultural practices among ragi farmers.
Economic Empowerment of Farmers:
The higher MSP for ragi has brought tangible economic benefits to farmers, particularly in tribal regions where agriculture remains the primary livelihood. By ensuring a reliable income source, this policy has significantly reduced migration to urban areas in search of work. Farmers now have the financial stability to invest in better seeds, organic fertilizers, and irrigation systems, resulting in improved productivity and quality of produce.
One of the most inspiring stories comes from Surendra Masti, a farmer and Managing Director of Jaivik Sri Farmer Producer Company (FPC). He recalls the days when farmers were forced to sell ragi at negligible prices. Today, with the MSP set at ₹4500 per quintal, he expresses hope and confidence in the future of millet farming. “This initiative will motivate farmers to grow more ragi and improve their livelihoods,” he says.
Fostering Gender Equality and Youth Participation:
The benefits of increased ragi prices extend beyond economic gains. Higher incomes have encouraged more women to participate in farming activities, fostering gender equality in rural communities. Women, who traditionally played a key role in millet cultivation, now have better access to financial resources and decision-making opportunities.
Additionally, the rising profitability of ragi farming has attracted younger generations back to agriculture. Youth who once viewed farming as an unviable career option are now exploring opportunities in millet cultivation and value-added products. This shift holds the promise of rejuvenating the agricultural workforce and ensuring the continuity of traditional farming practices.
Role of Stakeholders in Ragi Procurement:
The success of the MSP hike also owes much to the coordinated efforts of various stakeholders involved in ragi procurement. TDCCOL (Tribal Development Cooperative Corporation of Odisha Limited) serves as the state procurement agency, while Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and LAMPCS (Large Area Multi-Purpose Cooperative Societies) handle procurement at the block level.

In Koraput district, ragi procurement was inaugurated on January 10, 2025, by the MLA of Pottangi, Shri Ram Chandra Kadam, in the presence of Collector and District Magistrate Shri V. Keerthi Vasan, IAS, and other dignitaries. The district has set an ambitious target of procuring 2,38,000 quintals of ragi through 50 mandi points, ensuring that farmers have easy access to sell their produce at the declared MSP.
Shree Anna Abhiyan: A Game-Changer for Millets
The Shree Anna Abhiyan has been instrumental in the millet revolution in Odisha. Its multifaceted approach includes:
- Training and Capacity Building: Educating farmers on best practices for millet cultivation and sustainable agriculture.
- Market Linkages: Establishing direct connections between farmers and buyers to eliminate middlemen.
- Value Addition: Promoting the processing of millets into flour, cookies, and other products to enhance demand.
- Community Engagement: Mobilizing tribal communities to adopt millet farming as a collective effort.
These efforts have not only revived millet cultivation but also made it a cornerstone of Odisha’s agricultural policy.
Conclusion:
The increase in the MSP of ragi to ₹4500 per quintal marks a new era of hope and empowerment for Odisha’s millet farmers. By ensuring fair prices, enhancing financial security, and encouraging sustainable practices, this policy has transformed the lives of small and marginal farmers across the state.
As we celebrate the milestones achieved, it is crucial to sustain this momentum by addressing existing challenges and building a robust ecosystem for millet farming. With the continued support of the government, stakeholders, and communities, ragi cultivation in Odisha is poised to become a model of sustainable and inclusive agricultural development.
The journey of ragi farmers, from despair to dignity, serves as a source of inspiration for the entire nation. Let us collectively embrace and support this millet revolution for a healthier, more equitable future.
Author: Tapas Chandra Roy, A Certified Farm Advisor on Millets, ‘Promoting Millets from Farm to Plate’ and an Author of the book -” Millet Business Ideas-Empowering Millet Startups”. In a mission to take the forgotten grains- Millets to Millions. To remain updated on my blogs on Millets please subscribe to my newsletter and for any queries please feel free to write to [email protected]