Koppal, Karnataka:
A steep fall in maize prices has left hundreds of farmers in Koppal district facing financial distress. The sudden price crash, coming soon after a good harvest, has shattered farmers’ hopes of earning fair returns for their hard work. According to local market reports, maize is currently being sold at prices far below the Minimum Support Price (MSP), making it difficult for farmers to even recover their production costs. Many farmers had invested heavily in seeds, fertilizers, and labor, expecting better returns due to strong demand earlier in the season. “We worked hard the entire season, but now traders are offering prices as low as ₹1,200–₹1,300 per quintal,” said a farmer from Kushtagi taluk. “We are left with no choice but to sell at a loss. ”In response, farmers’ associations have urged the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) to intervene and purchase maize directly from growers for cattle feed production. They argue that this step would not only stabilize prices but also provide immediate relief to struggling farmers.
Agricultural experts suggest that government agencies should step up procurement and ensure fair market access to prevent further distress among maize producers. Local leaders have appealed to the state government to coordinate with KMF and other cooperative bodies to initiate emergency maize procurement drives across Koppal and neighboring districts.
If swift action is not taken, farmers fear that the continued fall in maize prices could severely impact their livelihoods and future cultivation plans.
