Government to Procure 50 Lakh MT of Kharif Paddy: Civil Supplies Minister

Speedy Summary

• Target for Kharif 2025-26: The government aims to procure 50 lakh MT of paddy at an estimated cost of ₹11,852 crore. Harvesting will commence in October, with early harvesting in the Godavari region.

• Previous Procurement:

– In the 2023-24 kharif season, the previous government procured only 29 lakh MT of paddy.
– The current NDA government procured a total of 35.94 lakh MT during last year’s kharif season with payment guaranteed within 24 hours.

• Minimum Support Price (MSP):

– Center announced MSP rates-₹2,389 per quintal for A-grade variety and ₹2,369 for common grade.

• Mid-Day Meals and Hostels:

– Government is committed to supplying fine-quality rice to 41,000 schools (Mid-Day Meal programme) and welfare hostels.

• Procurement Infrastructure in Godavari Region:

– Targeted procurement of paddy: Total of 19.50 lakh MT across East Godavari (4 lakh), West Godavari (5 lakh), Kakinada (3 lakh), Eluru (4 lakh), Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema district (3.5 lakh).
– Utilization of resources: Includes collaboration with over 691 rice mills and deployment thru approximately 1,234 Rythu Seva Kendras.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The government’s proactive measures to increase paddy procurement significantly compared to past seasons highlight its intention to stabilize agricultural markets and provide equitable support to farmers during Kharif season. By setting a high benchmark target for procurement rates alongside guarantees like MSP payments within strict timelines, it addresses key concerns among farming communities regarding fair pricing and timely compensation.

The emphasis on infrastructure-through Rythu seva Kendras and mills-supports streamlined operations necessary to meet ambitious goals while boosting confidence in rural logistics capabilities attributed mainly toward regions such as erstwhile East-West-Godvari-segment inclusion amongst facilitation nodes…