The State Department of Food and Public Procurement, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, has commenced the purchase of paddy from farmers in the joint initiative for the current rabi season. The program was inaugurated by Sushanta Chowdhury, Minister for Food and Civil Supplies and MLA from Majlishpur assembly constituency, at Madhavbari area in Jirania subdivision.
Addressing the farmers at the event, Minister Chowdhury highlighted the state government’s commitment to supporting the agricultural community. He stated, “Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has always been sympathetic towards the farmers of our state. Following his instructions, we have resumed the procurement of paddy from farmers at government-subsidized prices.”
Chowdhury emphasized the advantage of selling paddy to the government, stating that farmers receive a significantly higher price compared to the open market. He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to ensuring that only farmers benefit from this program.
With the goal of doubling the income of farmers in the state, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) is purchasing paddy from farmers at the minimum support price this year as well, added Chowdhury.
The Minister pointed out that in the past, Tripura had no provisions for paddy procurement through the minimum support price, which resulted in farmers being deprived of fair returns. However, the current government has taken the initiative to address this issue, and paddy is now being purchased from farmers at a rate of Rs 2040 per quintal.
This year, the state government has set a target of purchasing 35,000 metric tonnes of paddy from farmers, ensuring their economic welfare and stability.
Chowdhury urged farmers to sell their paddy through their nearest agriculture department or Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s office to avail the benefits of selling at the subsidized price. He assured them that necessary measures would be taken to facilitate the process and ensure that all farmers can sell a specified quantity of paddy at government-subsidized rates.
The Minister also directed the officials present to closely monitor the proceedings to prevent any harassment of farmers during the paddy procurement process at the designated centers.
The program was attended by Raval Hemendra Kumar, Special Secretary of the Department of Food and Public Procurement, Director of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department Sharadindu Das, and other officials. The initiative aims to support and uplift the agricultural community by providing them with fair prices for their produce and ultimately doubling their income.
