In a remarkable feat, Chhattisgarh has exceeded its set target for paddy procurement at the minimum support price (MSP) for the ongoing kharif marketing season 2023-24. Surpassing the goal of 13 million tonnes, the state has already acquired over 14.4 million tonnes of paddy from farmers, achieving this milestone two days before the January 31 deadline.
Initially, the procurement process faced a slow start, with only 3.1 million tonnes of paddy reaching designated procurement societies by December 10, 40 days into the process. However, a notable surge occurred after December 21, following the state’s notification to purchase paddy at Rs 3,100 per quintal. This price increase was promised by the BJP before the Assembly elections, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to Chhattisgarh.
The Chhattisgarh Marketing Federation (Markfed), the nodal agency for paddy procurement, reported the purchase of over 14.22 million tonnes of paddy at MSP from 2.45 million farmers by January 31. The farmers received a total payment exceeding Rs 30,068 crore through banking channels.
To accommodate the extended deadline until February 4, provided by the Chief Minister due to the challenges faced by many farmers in selling their produce within the initial timeframe, the federation continues its focus on the rapid lifting of paddy for custom milling. Till now, delivery orders have been issued for lifting 10.4 million tonnes of paddy, with millers successfully lifting 9.6 million tonnes, addressing concerns about storage capacities.
This success not only showcases the efficient implementation of MSP policies but also reflects the commitment of the Chhattisgarh government to support farmers and streamline the procurement process for their benefit.
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