★ The recent tender for Soybean K 24 issued by the central agency has been passed at lower rates, raising concerns among farmers and traders.

★ According to data, tenders in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh on 17th September 2025 were cleared at ₹4,109–₹4,242 per quintal. This is significantly lower compared to last month. For instance, on 28th July, prices in Maharashtra were ₹4,501–₹4,571 and in Madhya Pradesh ₹4,451–₹4,476. In Gujarat, the tender on 18th August was passed at ₹4,536–₹4,575, which fell to ₹4,351–₹4,410 by 17th September. In just one month, prices dropped by ₹165–₹185 per quintal, which is a substantial decline.

★ This season, reports indicate that the soybean crop has suffered due to rainfall and viral attacks. Additionally, the sown area is lower than last year. In such a scenario, tender prices should have been higher to provide relief to farmers. However, on the contrary, the tenders are being cleared at lower rates, leaving both traders and farmers uncertain.

★ Passing tenders at such low prices could cause losses to all stakeholders and may put pressure on future open-market prices. The central agency should reconsider its pricing strategy and ensure fair rates.

★ One must also question whether these low tender prices are the result of cartel formation, taking advantage of the crop situation. This remains a pertinent issue.