Telangana’s Minister for Civil Supplies, Uttam Kumar Reddy, has instructed officials to finish paddy procurement by the end of May. He emphasized expediting the procurement process being carried out by the government statewide. In a video conference, attended by Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and other officials, they reviewed the ongoing paddy procurement efforts.
Chief Secretary Ramakrishna Rao, Civil Supplies Commissioner Stephen Raveendra, district Collectors, MPs, MLAs, and officials were present at the meeting. Reddy mentioned that the state has cultivated 141 lakh tonnes of paddy, with a target to procure 75 lakh tonnes at the Minimum Support Price. Currently, 8,575 paddy procurement centers are operational across Telangana, having already procured 51 lakh tonnes of paddy, amounting to Rs 8,749 crore released towards the Minimum Support Price.
Furthermore, 21 crore gunny bags have been distributed at the field level in the state. Reddy stressed the urgent need to procure 8.5 lakh tonnes of paddy awaiting collection at procurement centers. The minister directed officials to complete the procurement process by the end of the month and establish checkpoints in border districts to prevent the influx of paddy, sorghum, and maize from neighboring states.
Instructions were given to take strict action against any rice millers or middlemen attempting to deceive farmers. Reddy highlighted the importance of promptly entering details of procured grain into digital tablets to expedite cash payments to farmers. He reiterated the government’s commitment to farmers’ welfare and ensuring they do not face any financial losses.
Deputy Chief Minister Vikramarka emphasized the need for a swift completion of the paddy procurement process and increasing the number of laborers available for the task. He noted the improved payment processing, ensuring farmers receive their payments promptly. Additionally, measures to reduce air pollution in urban areas are being implemented, with awareness campaigns planned to educate farmers on preventing agricultural waste burning.
