The state government has successfully procured 17,497.109 metric tonnes of paddy from farmers during the Kharif season at the minimum support price (MSP) of ₹23 per kg. This initiative has directly benefited 8,922 farmers across the state. Food, Public Procurement, and Consumer Affairs Minister Sushant Chowdhury announced this at a press conference held at the Secretariat’s Press Conference Hall.
The minister stated that the paddy was purchased through 51 procurement centers in 19 subdivisions across the state. The government has allocated ₹40.25 crore for this initiative, of which ₹35.52 crore—over 88% of the total amount—has already been disbursed to farmers via their bank accounts. The remaining payments will be completed soon.
Consistent Paddy Procurement Since 2018
Minister Chowdhury emphasized that the state government has been purchasing paddy twice a year in both the Kharif and Rabi seasons since 2018. In total, 2,25,356.805 metric tonnes of paddy have been procured, benefiting 1,17,049 farmers, with the government spending ₹446.13 crore on procurement. Despite natural disasters, the procurement process has remained smooth and beneficial for farmers.
“Our government is committed to supporting farmers and strengthening their economic foundation,” said Minister Chowdhury.
‘Jagruti’ Awareness Program for Road Safety and Consumer Protection
During the press conference, Minister Chowdhury, who also holds the Transport portfolio, discussed the state-wide public awareness program ‘Jagruti’, jointly organized by the Transport and Food Departments. This initiative aims to address road safety, consumer protection, and drug addiction awareness.
Students from 25 colleges, universities, and law institutions, including ICFAI University, TIT, and Law College, participated in the campaign, with 5,200 students actively engaging in various activities. The campaign, which began on January 11 in Udaipur, Gomati district, concluded on February 10 at Rabindra Centenary Bhavan in Agartala. Students were also awarded prizes for their participation.
Minister Chowdhury revealed plans to extend the ‘Jagruti’ program to schools in the future to create greater awareness among young students.
Additional Secretary of the Transport Department Subrata Chowdhury, Food Department Director Sumit Lodh, and Joint Director Abhijit Biswas were also present at the press conference.
