New Delhi
The Food Corporation of India (FCI) and state agencies have successfully procured 120.67 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of paddy in Punjab for the 2024-2025 kharif marketing season, amounting to Rs 27,995 crore. This procurement, as of November 8, is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to support farmers and ensure fair returns for their crops, the government said on Saturday.
A total of 126.67 LMT of paddy has arrived at Punjab’s mandis, with 120.67 LMT already purchased at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Rs 2,320 per quintal for Grade ‘A’ paddy. This move benefits approximately 6.58 lakh farmers across the state.
The procurement process, which began on October 1, 2024, is being facilitated through 2,927 mandis and temporary yards set up across Punjab. Additionally, 4,839 millers have applied for shelling of paddy, with 4,743 already allocated work by the state government.
The Centre has set a target to procure 185 LMT of paddy during the 2024-25 kharif season, which will continue until November 30. The procurement process is progressing smoothly, with paddy being lifted from the mandis at a pace greater than daily arrivals.
This effort is in line with the government’s initiative to ensure farmers receive a fair price for their produce and are protected from distress sales. The Union Cabinet recently raised the MSP for rabi crops, further supporting India’s agricultural sector.
