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Bajra Price: MSP Benchmark, Mandi Trading and Grade

The market price of pearl millet (bajra) in India is determined by seasonal arrival volumes, grain moisture content, grain color and boldness, and the Minimum Support Price (MSP) announced annually by the central government. As an essential climate-resilient nutri-cereal (Shree Anna), bajra price realization directly impacts millions of rainfed smallholders across Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, UP, and Maharashtra.

Last reviewed: 10 November 2026

Minimum Support Price (MSP) and government procurement

The central government announces the MSP for bajra ahead of the kharif sowing season based on recommendations by the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP). State designated agencies and the Food Corporation of India (FCI) establish procurement centers to purchase FAQ (Fair Average Quality) bajra directly from registered farmers at MSP.

  • CACP cost benchmarks: MSP is set at a minimum of 50% over the all-India cost of production (A2+FL).
  • Nutri-cereal inclusion: Government procurement supports public distribution systems (PDS) and mid-day meal programs.
  • Direct payment to bank: Procurement payments are transferred electronically to farmers' Aadhaar-linked accounts.

Quality parameters influencing wholesale mandi rates

  • Moisture limit: Grains must contain no more than 12% to 14% moisture content to prevent mold and mycotoxin formation.
  • Foreign matter and damaged grains: Clean, well-sieved grains free of ergot sclerotia, dust, and weeviled seeds fetch top market rates.
  • Grain size and color: Uniform, bold grayish-green grains command premiums for food consumption, while smaller grains trade for poultry feed.

Trading digitally via e-NAM mandis

Farmers can monitor real-time wholesale arrival rates across agricultural mandis on the National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) portal (enam.gov.in) and participate in competitive electronic bidding to secure maximum market value.

Official source

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Directorate of Economics and Statistics (DESAgri) ↗

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Common questions

What is the maximum moisture content accepted for bajra under FAQ MSP standards?

Under government FAQ procurement norms, bajra moisture content must not exceed 14%.

Which Indian state produces the largest share of bajra?

Rajasthan is India's largest bajra-producing state, accounting for over 40% of national production.

Where can farmers track live daily mandi prices for bajra?

Farmers can check live wholesale prices and arrival volumes on the official e-NAM portal (enam.gov.in) and Agmarknet.

General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.

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