Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has instructed District Collectors to set up exclusive procurement centers for fine rice varieties or arrange dedicated weighing machines within existing centers. In a video conference, he emphasized strict adherence to identification and procurement protocols to avoid issues. He also announced a bonus of ₹500 per quintal for fine rice varieties, in addition to the Minimum Support Price (MSP), and directed officials to ensure payment to farmers within 48 hours.
Reddy noted that paddy was cultivated across 66.73 lakh acres in the state, with an estimated yield of 140 lakh metric tonnes, of which 58% are fine rice varieties. The Chief Minister highlighted the declining demand for coarse varieties due to high stock levels in FCI godowns. Furthermore, he urged officials to complete the DSC certification by Saturday and ensure appointment letters for 9,090 candidates are distributed on October 9 at LB Stadium.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy recently held a crucial video conference where he outlined the state’s immediate priorities regarding paddy procurement, emphasizing the need for efficiency, transparency, and farmer-centric policies. The Chief Minister laid out a comprehensive plan to expedite the procurement process, particularly for fine rice varieties, and ensure that farmers receive timely payments. Below is a detailed account of his key announcements and the broader context of the paddy procurement drive in Telangana.
Paddy Procurement and Focus on Fine Rice Varieties
Telangana has witnessed robust growth in paddy cultivation, with paddy grown over 66.73 lakh acres this season. The state’s agricultural department has projected a harvest of 140 lakh metric tonnes, a substantial figure that underscores the state’s agrarian strength. Of this, approximately 58% of the produce is expected to be fine rice varieties, highlighting a shift in cultivation patterns towards high-quality rice.
Recognizing the growing significance of fine rice, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy stressed the need to streamline procurement processes specifically for these varieties. Fine rice, typically in higher demand in both domestic and international markets, commands a premium price, and ensuring smooth procurement is essential for both the state’s economy and farmers’ livelihoods.
Exclusive Procurement Centers for Fine Rice
In response to the increasing production of fine rice, the Chief Minister directed District Collectors to establish exclusive procurement centers dedicated solely to fine rice varieties. This move is designed to minimize confusion and delays that often arise when various types of rice are handled at the same center. Fine rice requires different handling and storage conditions due to its higher quality and market demand.
Where separate centers are not feasible, the Chief Minister recommended that dedicated weighing machines be installed within existing procurement centers to handle fine rice exclusively. This measure aims to ensure precise weighing and reduce any potential discrepancies that could disadvantage farmers during the procurement process.
Stringent Adherence to Procurement Protocols
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy emphasized that the procurement of fine rice must follow all prescribed protocols to ensure fairness and transparency. He cautioned that if procurement staff were not vigilant, issues could arise, potentially leading to problems for both farmers and the government. The Chief Minister’s firm stance underscores the importance of strict compliance with guidelines to prevent lapses in the procurement system.
He instructed officials to be proactive and remain alert throughout the process, ensuring that the identification of fine rice varieties is carried out accurately and without manipulation. The state government aims to avoid any lapses or mismanagement that could erode the trust of farmers, who rely on the government for fair prices and timely payments for their produce.
₹500 Bonus for Fine Rice Varieties
In a significant announcement aimed at boosting farmers’ incomes, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy declared that a bonus of ₹500 per quintal would be paid to farmers producing fine rice varieties. This bonus is in addition to the Minimum Support Price (MSP), which is already offered by the government. By offering this financial incentive, the state aims to encourage the cultivation of fine rice, which has higher market demand compared to coarse varieties.
This bonus is expected to not only enhance the earnings of farmers but also promote the cultivation of premium rice varieties that can fetch better prices in national and international markets. The move reflects the government’s strategic focus on improving the profitability of rice cultivation while also ensuring that the state meets market demand for higher-quality produce.
48-Hour Payment Directive
To further reinforce the government’s commitment to farmers, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy issued a directive that the procurement amount be deposited directly into the farmers’ accounts within 48 hours of the transaction. This measure aims to alleviate the financial burden on farmers, many of whom rely on timely payments to meet immediate expenses such as labor costs, loan repayments, and household needs.
Delayed payments have historically been a source of frustration for farmers, leading to financial stress. The Chief Minister’s decision to enforce a 48-hour deadline for payments is a step towards addressing this long-standing issue and ensuring that farmers are not left waiting for their dues.
Declining Demand for Coarse Varieties
While fine rice varieties are seeing an upward trend, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy pointed out that there is a declining demand for coarse rice varieties. The Food Corporation of India (FCI) is already holding large stocks of coarse rice, and there is little demand in the market for additional procurement of these varieties. This has prompted the state government to focus more on fine rice, which is seen as a better economic option for both farmers and the state.
The shift in focus from coarse to fine rice reflects broader market trends and consumer preferences. Fine rice is increasingly favored for its quality and nutritional value, while coarse rice has seen reduced demand. By encouraging farmers to cultivate more fine rice, the state government is aligning its agricultural policies with market realities, ensuring better outcomes for farmers and the economy.
Future Growth in Fine Rice Cultivation
Looking ahead, the Chief Minister expressed optimism that the cultivation of fine rice varieties would continue to increase in the coming years. With more farmers opting to grow fine rice due to its higher profitability and the government’s supportive measures, the state expects a further rise in fine rice production. This is likely to enhance Telangana’s standing as a major producer of premium rice in India.
The government’s efforts to promote fine rice cultivation through incentives and improved procurement processes are expected to yield long-term benefits. Farmers are likely to benefit from higher incomes, while the state can boost its agricultural exports by catering to the growing demand for fine rice in both domestic and international markets.
DSC Certification and Recruitment
Apart from agricultural policies, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy also touched upon the ongoing recruitment process under the District Selection Committee (DSC). He instructed officials to complete the certification process for candidates by Saturday and make the necessary arrangements for the distribution of appointment letters on October 9 at LB Stadium.
As of now, officials have verified the certificates of 9,090 candidates, and the government is keen on ensuring that the recruitment process is completed without delays. This move is part of the government’s broader effort to strengthen public sector employment and provide job opportunities to qualified candidates.
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s announcements reflect a proactive approach to addressing the key challenges facing Telangana’s agricultural sector, particularly with regard to paddy procurement. By establishing exclusive procurement centers for fine rice, offering a ₹500 bonus, and ensuring 48-hour payments, the government is taking significant steps to support farmers and enhance the state’s agricultural output.
The emphasis on fine rice varieties also highlights the state’s strategic focus on premium agricultural products, which are increasingly in demand. With further growth in fine rice cultivation expected in the coming years, Telangana is well-positioned to become a leader in high-quality rice production, benefiting both its farmers and its economy.
In addition, the government’s commitment to timely recruitment under the DSC reflects its broader focus on governance and public service delivery. Through these initiatives, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is aiming to strengthen the agricultural and employment sectors, driving growth and development across Telangana.
