Telangana readies for record rabi procurement

Metro India News | HUZURNAGAR

Minister for Irrigation and Civil Supplies N. Uttam Kumar Reddy said extensive preparations are underway to ensure smooth Minimum Support Price (MSP) operations during the Rabi marketing season, with a target to procure 90 lakh metric tonnes of paddy.

Following a review at Huzurnagar market yard, he stated that the government aims to reach every farmer and ensure payments within 48 hours. With Rabi paddy production expected to exceed 148 lakh metric tonnes, arrangements have been scaled up to handle the anticipated bumper harvest and prevent distress sales.

A total of 8,251 paddy purchase centres (PPCs) are being set up across the state, supported by improved infrastructure, storage, and logistics. Over 16 crore gunny bags have been arranged. Each centre will be supervised by a designated officer to ensure quality checks, transparency, and timely procurement.

The Minister stressed zero tolerance for delays in paddy movement and directed officials to expedite the operationalisation of all centres. MSP rates have been fixed at Rs 2,369 per quintal for common grade and Rs 2,389 for fine varieties, with strict monitoring to prevent irregularities.

He also addressed concerns over boiled rice procurement under the custom milled rice scheme, citing reduced allocation by the Centre and stricter norms on broken rice. Assuring coordinated action, he said the state will take up the issue with the Union government to protect the interests of farmers and millers.

A Chief Minister-level review will be held soon to assess progress. Recalling the previous Kharif season’s record procurement of 72 lakh metric tonnes and direct payments exceeding Rs 19,500 crore, he said the state is preparing for another strong Rabi season.