Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday reviewed the ongoing paddy procurement process in the state and emphasized the need to speed up operations to ensure that farmers do not face any difficulties. The CM directed that every farmer visiting a paddy procurement center should have their produce purchased, with payments transferred directly to their bank accounts without any delay.
Ensuring Smooth Paddy Procurement and Payment
During the meeting, the Chief Minister reiterated that delays in payments will not be tolerated. Instructions were also given to ensure an uninterrupted supply of fortified rice for Mid-Day Meal schemes and Anganwadi centers. This step is expected to simplify the processes of paddy lifting and mill mapping, making procurement more efficient for farmers.
Procurement Figures and MSP Rates
Officials reported that this year, the Minimum Support Price (MSP) has been set at ₹2,369 per quintal for common paddy and ₹2,389 per quintal for Grade-A, which is ₹69 higher than last year. Currently, 4,227 procurement centers are operational, with plans to increase the number to 5,000 to make services more accessible for farmers close to their villages and towns.
So far, 9.02 lakh metric tons of paddy have been procured from 1,51,030 farmers, with over ₹1,984 crore transferred directly to farmers’ accounts. Additionally, 2,130 metric tons of paddy have successfully passed FRK quality tests, ensuring high standards in procurement.
Manpower and Operational Efficiency
The CM directed officials to increase manpower at procurement centers wherever necessary, to ensure smooth operations and avoid overcrowding. Farmers should not have to return without selling their produce, and all steps, including paddy lifting, mill mapping, and related processes, should be streamlined.
Focus on Fertilizers and Seeds
The meeting also addressed the availability of fertilizers and seeds, with the CM stressing that no district should face shortages, and farmers should have easy access to these essential agricultural inputs.
Commitment to Farmer Welfare
With these measures, the Uttar Pradesh government aims to support farmers, ensure timely payments, and strengthen the state’s procurement system, while maintaining transparency and efficiency throughout the process.
