21-12-2024 12:00:00 AM
kiranmai tutika I hyderabad
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu emphasized the importance of transparency and efficiency in the procurement of paddy, stating that farmers should face no errors during the process. Addressing farmers and officials at the Ganguru Rythu Seva Kendra (Farmers’ Service Center) in Penamaluru constituency, he assured that payments would be credited to farmers' accounts within 24 hours of procurement.
“Mechanization in agriculture not only reduces labour but also increases productivity,” said Naidu, highlighting his government's efforts to reduce input costs for farmers while increasing their income. He reiterated his commitment to lifting farmers out of debt and ensuring a steady income.
During his visit, the Chief Minister closely monitored the paddy procurement process. Officials from the Rythu Seva Kendra explained the detailed steps involved in purchasing paddy from farmers, while the farmers shared their experiences.
Farmers informed the Chief Minister that this year’s harvest was better than the previous year, partly due to initiatives like mechanized harvesting. They reported saving approximately Rs.5,000 to Rs.6,000 per acre through the use of advanced harvesting techniques. The Chief Minister assured farmers that additional revenue could be earned if the harvested crop residues, such as straw, were sold to biofuel plants, fetching another Rs.5,000 per acre.
When asked about payment delays, farmers confirmed that payments were being credited accurately within 48 hours of procurement. Naidu instructed officials to streamline the process further, ensuring consistency in moisture content readings from the procurement centers to the mills to avoid discrepancies.
Naidu also suggested exploring the possibility of crediting payments to farmers' accounts a day earlier to enhance their satisfaction. “I am here to interact with farmers, listen to their suggestions, and address their concerns,” he said, urging farmers to focus on cultivating crops that yield higher incomes.
He stressed the importance of assessing soil and climatic conditions to determine suitable crops, as delays in providing water often result in losses for farmers. Highlighting the government’s efforts, Naidu said, “For five years, no desilting work was done in canals. Through Pattiseema, we are ensuring timely water supply for transplantation.”
The Chief Minister acknowledged farmers' challenges in drying paddy and announced plans to deploy dryer machines directly to the fields. He also directed officials to remove encroachments on canals to ensure proper water flow.
Urging agricultural officers to guide farmers on best practices to boost yields, he emphasized the importance of educating farmers about market demand and marketing strategies. “Farmers should know which crops have higher demand and how to market their produce effectively,” he said.
During the visit, the Chief Minister distributed tarpaulins to farmers for drying their paddy. He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to improving the lives of farmers through systematic and innovative measures. “Our agriculture is not just an occupation; it is our culture and way of life. Whether farming on owned land or leased land, farmers must earn a sustainable income,” Naidu remarked.