Civil Supplies Department Faces Criticism Over Delayed Paddy Procurement

Allegations of Negligence in Yasangi Season Procurement

The Congress government is facing criticism over the handling of paddy procurement during the ongoing Yasangi season. Concerns have been raised regarding delays and limited procurement activity across multiple districts.

According to available details, procurement operations have not progressed as expected, leading to dissatisfaction among farmers who are awaiting government intervention.

Procurement Yet to Begin in Several Districts

It has been reported that in as many as 25 districts, not even a single kilogram of paddy has been procured so far. This has raised questions over the preparedness and execution of procurement plans by the authorities.

Farmers in these districts are reportedly facing uncertainty as procurement centres have either not been set up or are not functioning effectively.

Target Versus Current Procurement Figures

The Civil Supplies Department had set a target of procuring nearly 90 lakh metric tonnes of paddy during the Yasangi season. However, the current procurement stands at only around 2.5 lakh metric tonnes.

The gap between the target and actual procurement has become a point of concern, especially as the season progresses without significant acceleration in operations.

Delay in Setting Up Procurement Centres

As per the schedule, procurement centres were expected to be established by the first week of April. However, the number of centres set up so far is limited to 3,310.

Out of these, procurement activities are reportedly taking place in only about 1,000 centres. The remaining centres are either not operational or yet to begin procurement work.

Impact on Farmers and Market Conditions

Due to the lack of functional procurement centres, farmers are reportedly compelled to sell their produce to middlemen and private millers. This situation has raised concerns over fair pricing and transparency in transactions.

Farmers have expressed dissatisfaction over the current arrangements, stating that delays in procurement are directly affecting their ability to secure minimum support prices for their produce.

Demand for Immediate Government Intervention

Farmers have urged the government and the Civil Supplies Department to take immediate steps to expand procurement operations. They have demanded the establishment and activation of more procurement centres without further delay.

The demand also includes ensuring that procurement processes are carried out efficiently so that farmers do not have to rely on private buyers.

Context of Seasonal Procurement Operations

Paddy procurement during the Yasangi season is a critical activity, as it directly impacts farmer income and market stability. Timely establishment of procurement centres and efficient operations are essential to ensure that farmers can sell their produce at regulated prices.

The current situation has brought attention to administrative coordination and execution challenges in managing large-scale procurement operations.