The Tripura Government has announced a target to procure 21,315 metric tonnes of paddy from farmers during the Kharif season at the Minimum Support Price (MSP). The procurement will be conducted at a price of Rs 23 per kilogram and the procurement drive will commence on December 19, 2024. Sushanta Chowdhury, the Minister of Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs, revealed this during a press conference held at the Secretariat on Monday.
Enhanced Support for Farmers
Sushanta Chowdhury highlighted the government purchases paddy from farmers at MSP during both the Kharif and Rabi seasons every year. This season’s rate of Rs 23 per kilogram marks an increase from the previous year’s Rs 21.83 per kilogram. The state-level procurement program will be formally inaugurated at the Jirania Madhab Bari Truck Terminal Center. Moreover, 49 procurement centers will be set up across various districts to ensure easy access for farmers.
“The initiative underscores our commitment to providing fair prices for farmers’ produce and bolstering their economic foundation,” the Minister commented.
Collaborative Efforts
Collaborative EffortsIn preparation for the procurement process, a virtual meeting was convened with District Magistrates, Block Development Officers (BDOs), officials from the Agriculture and Food Departments, and Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath. The meeting focused on ensuring seamless coordination and effective implementation of the program.
Impact Since 2018
Chowdhury noted that since the formation of the current state government in 2018, paddy procurement programs have significantly benefited farmers. Over the past five years, a total of 2,70,859.696 metric tonnes of paddy has been procured, amounting to Rs 405.88 crore in expenditure. This initiative has directly benefited 1,08,127 farmers in the state.
Focus on Doubling Farmers’ Income
The paddy procurement program aligns with the joint objective of the state and central governments to double farmers’ incomes. “By ensuring fair prices and supporting farmers, we aim to strengthen their economic standing and promote agricultural growth,” Sushanta Chowdhury added.
(Tripura, Northeast)
