State government launches paddy procurement drive at MSP as Minister Sushanta Chowdhury reaffirms commitment to farmer welfare, agricultural growth, food security, and income stability, aligning state policies with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of doubling farmers’ income.
Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Sushanta Chowdhury on Saturday reaffirmed the state government’s firm commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector and improving the socio-economic conditions of farmers, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of doubling farmers’ income. The Minister was speaking at the official launch of the paddy procurement programme at the government food warehouse in Madhabbari under Jirania subdivision.
Addressing farmers, officials, and stakeholders, Chowdhury emphasized that since the formation of the present government in 2018, agriculture has remained a priority sector. He said consistent efforts have been made to increase food grain production, enhance productivity, and ensure that farmers receive fair and remunerative prices for their produce.
The Minister recalled that in 2018, during the Rabi season, the state government introduced paddy procurement at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for the first time. This step was taken to protect farmers from losses caused by declining market prices and to provide them with income security. Since then, the policy has continued as a key farmer-centric initiative.
Continuing this commitment, the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department, with support from the Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department, has set a target to procure 18,000 metric tonnes of paddy during the ongoing Kharif season. The procurement will be carried out at an MSP of Rs 2,369 per quintal, ensuring that farmers are insulated from market volatility.
“This government remains fully committed to protecting farmers from market fluctuations and ensuring that their hard work is fairly rewarded,” Chowdhury said. “By procuring paddy at MSP, we are safeguarding farmers’ livelihoods, strengthening rural prosperity, and contributing to overall food security.”
Governor Indrasena Reddy Nallu, who attended the programme as chief guest, praised the initiative and described it as a significant step toward safeguarding farmers’ interests. He noted that procurement at MSP provides farmers with financial stability and confidence to continue agricultural activities without fear of price crashes.
“The government’s decision to procure paddy at Minimum Support Price is a strong and timely step to protect farmers from unpredictable market forces,” the Governor said. “Ensuring fair returns for cultivators is not only about economic stability, but also about recognizing and honoring the dedication of the farming community.”
The Governor further observed that such initiatives align state-level agricultural policies with national goals of farmer welfare, food security, and sustainable rural development. He stressed that strong procurement mechanisms play a crucial role in strengthening the agricultural value chain.
After the programme, the Minister and the Governor jointly inspected the government food warehouse and the adjoining inter-state truck terminal at Madhabbari. Officials present explained the operational arrangements, storage capacity, and logistics planning for the procurement drive.
According to departmental officials, the paddy procurement programme is expected to benefit thousands of farmers across the state. By providing assured prices and timely payments, the initiative aims to reduce distress sales, boost farmer confidence, and promote long-term agricultural growth.
