The Karnataka government has authorised poultry feed manufacturers to procure maize directly from farmers at MSP-linked rates for the 2025–26 Kharif season, aiming to ease supply hurdles and bolster farmer support, reported PTI.
The decision comes after the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services submitted a proposal following consultations with poultry and livestock feed manufacturers. The government said the approval was granted based on the considerations outlined in the proposal.
According to a note from the Commissioner, the chief minister, during a meeting on December 1, urged manufacturers to directly purchase an estimated five lakh tonnes of maize from farmers, prioritising their welfare.
Manufacturers indicated they were open to direct procurement provided the maize met poultry feed quality standards and advance payment requirements were kept minimal.
At a follow-up meeting on December 2, members of the Karnataka Poultry Farmers & Breeders Association (KPFBA) informed officials that maize currently procured under MSP typically contains about 14% moisture. They said they would purchase the crop if the moisture level did not exceed 12%, and agreed to initiate procurement with 5,000 tonnes, supported by a 20% advance payment.
Based on these inputs, the state government has empowered poultry feed manufacturers, through the Animal Husbandry Department, to source maize directly from farmers at MSP-quality prices, the note stated.
