MP Suspends E-Token, Boosts Moong Buy to 60% After Protest

Madhya Pradesh is the largest producer of moong in the country, with more than 40% of national output. In the 2025-26 summer (Zaid) season, the state produced 18.18 lt out of a total 18.39 lt of summer moong. National production stands at 44.92 lt. If the state buys 60% of its summer moong, it would need to purchase nearly 11 lt.

The e-token system was designed to curb black marketing and prevent long queues at retail outlets. Farmers were expected to register using Aadhaar or other approved ID, mention land records, and book a date and time slot at cooperative societies based on availability. Farmer leader Kedar Sirohi, who was part of the protest, said the government was deciding what nutrients and how much quantity farmers should use without taking responsibility for output or yield. "When we wanted to buy DAP, they were denying us SSP or vice versa. When we wanted to buy urea, the government was forcefully selling other fertilisers with it in the name of balanced use," Sirohi said.

Industry leaders are divided on the suspension. A manufacturer of micronutrient supported the move. A top official at a leading fertiliser company welcomed it, saying the system "was supposed to be stopped." The state's e-Vikas portal described the system as a way to "ensure that fertiliser supply aligns with actual requirements, thereby fostering efficiency, transparency, and accountability."

State Agriculture Minister Aidal Singh Kansana said a committee would be formed to examine complaints and practical difficulties relating to the e-token system. The committee will recommend improvements. Until it submits its recommendations and necessary changes are carried out, the e-token system remains suspended.