On Wednesday, the Indian Union Cabinet approved a significant ₹2.6 trillion outlay to enhance minimum support prices (MSPs) for 14 kharif crops, including paddy and maize, for the 2026-27 marketing season. This decision aims to bolster food security amid global volatility and rising food inflation. Notably, the MSP for common paddy was raised by ₹72 to ₹2,441 per quintal, while tur (arhar) saw an increase of ₹450 to ₹8,450 per quintal. The government is particularly focused on pulses and oilseeds to reduce import dependence on edible oils. In addition to the MSP increases, the Cabinet approved a ₹36,500 crore coal gasification scheme aimed at establishing 25 gasification plants over the next three to four years. This initiative is expected to diminish reliance on imported liquefied natural gas and generate around 50,000 jobs. Union coal minister G. Kishan Reddy emphasized that the synthetic gas produced will be utilized in fertilizer production, further strengthening India's energy security. The Cabinet's decisions reflect a comprehensive approach to address both agricultural and energy challenges in the country.