Kumar Bahukhandi
*Chief Minister Directs Officials to Ensure Proper Arrangements for Farmers at Procurement Centres
*Strict Action to Be Taken Against Illegal Transportation and Sale of Paddy
Raipur: Ahead of the commencement of paddy procurement at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) from November 15, the state government has completed all necessary preparations across all 2739 procurement centres in the state. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has instructed officials to ensure that farmers face no inconvenience during the sale of their paddy. He emphasised that every essential facility must be made available at the procurement centres. Under the guidance of District Collectors, the Departments of Cooperatives, MARKFED and Food are coordinating all arrangements for smooth procurement operations.
To facilitate farmers, procurement centres across the state have been equipped with adequate gunny bags, sheds, raised platforms, drinking water facilities and shaded waiting areas. District collectors and senior officials are conducting field visits to review arrangements at procurement points. This year, 2,739 procurement centres have been set up for purchasing paddy from farmers. Along with procurement, timely lifting of purchased paddy is also being ensured so that farmers do not face any delays or inconvenience.
The Department of Cooperatives has informed that micro-ATMs have been installed in all 2058 cooperative societies across the state to enable farmers to withdraw required cash immediately for essential expenses after selling their paddy.
To curb illegal transportation of paddy, strict monitoring has been put in place at inter-state borders through check posts. For the safe storage of paddy, procurement centres are being provided with drainage systems, tarpaulin sheets and other protective arrangements. CCTV cameras are also being installed at appropriate locations to maintain vigilance over the premises and ensure efficient management of operations.
Officials associated with the procurement process have been instructed to follow proper stacking procedures and to issue tokens to farmers strictly in appropriate numbers. Special attention is being given to advance preparations to avoid any disruption in the event of unfavourable weather or rainfall.
The comprehensive preparation reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring a seamless and farmer-friendly procurement season across Chhattisgarh.
