Sukhbir Badal Calls for Basmati Rice Price Cut

Sukhbir Singh Badal, president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), has urged the Indian government to reduce the minimum export price (MEP) of basmati rice from USD 950 to USD 750 per tonne to enhance farmers' incomes and boost global competitiveness. He emphasized that despite an expected bumper harvest, farmers would not benefit unless the MEP is revisited, as exporters cannot purchase rice due to full godowns and restrictive export policies. Badal pointed out that Pakistan's competitive pricing at USD 750 per tonne is undermining India's position in the international market. Additionally, he called for the removal of the ban on non-basmati white rice exports and the 20% duty on parboiled rice exports, asserting these changes are vital for alleviating farmers' economic distress and preserving foreign exchange. The SAD leader's statements reflect growing concerns about the challenges faced by basmati rice farmers amid fluctuating market conditions.