Government all set for paddy procurement in Rabi season

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

The Telangana government has made elaborate arrangements for the procurement of paddy during the current Yasangi (Rabi) season. Officials have announced that the government is prepared to purchase every single grain produced by farmers. This season, the government has set a target to procure 90 lakh metric tonnes of paddy. To achieve this, it plans to set up 8,251 procurement centers across the state. Procurement centers will be opened first in Nizamabad, Nalgonda and Kamareddy districts. The government expects a total paddy production of 148 lakh metric tonnes in the state during this Yasangi season.

Approximately 17 crore gunny bags have been arranged for paddy storage. Modern equipment such as tarpaulins, automatic paddy dryers, cleaners, grain calipers, moisture meters and electronic weighing machines will be made available at every center. Farmers will receive a Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Rs 2,369 per quintal for common varieties and Rs 2,389 per quintal for fine varieties. Additionally, the government will pay an extra Rs 500 per quintal as bonus. Payment will be credited directly to farmers’ bank accounts within 48 hours of weighing the paddy.

Tight measures to prevent smuggling

To stop the illegal transportation of paddy from other states, the government is strengthening surveillance at borders. As many as 56 inter-state check posts will be set up across 17 districts. CCTV cameras and surprise checks will be conducted at these points. Every vehicle carrying paddy from procurement centers will be fitted with GPS tracking to prevent diversion and ensure the grain reaches designated mills without being smuggled to other states.

This large-scale procurement drive is expected to provide much-needed financial support to farmers while ensuring food security for the state.