File Photo
TFP Bureau, Raipur, November 13, 2024: The paddy procurement season in Chhattisgarh is set to begin on November 14, with Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai inaugurating the initiative at the newly established Bhatagaon B procurement center in Balod district. Following the guidelines laid out by the Chief Minister, the state has made comprehensive preparations to ensure smooth and efficient procurement for the current Kharif marketing season.
The state will procure paddy at the support price across 2,739 centers until January 31, 2025. This year, approximately 27.1 lakh farmers are registered for paddy sales, with an additional 1.35 lakh new farmers joining the program and over 1.36 lakh hectares of new farmland registered for the season. The government has also implemented a token system for farmers, enabling small and marginal farmers to receive up to two tokens, while large-scale farmers are eligible for up to three tokens throughout the season.
To enhance the efficiency and transparency of the procurement process, all centers have been equipped with biometric verification devices and electronic weighing systems. Adequate supplies of gunny bags, shaded areas, and water facilities have been arranged to ensure farmers’ comfort during the process. Helpline numbers and a control room have been set up for grievance redressal, with a dedicated helpline at 0771-2425463 for any assistance required.
In an effort to prevent illegal paddy transportation and bogus transactions, especially in border areas, the state has established special checkpoints and will maintain strict monitoring throughout the procurement period. Additionally, Markfed will establish an Integrated Control Command Center to oversee rice mills and procurement centers in real time. A state-level inspection team comprising senior officers will conduct frequent district visits to ensure compliance and swiftly address any irregularities.
Farmers can expect payment within 72 hours of their paddy sale, facilitated by “Micro ATM” services at the procurement centers. The Chief Minister’s inauguration of the paddy procurement season will also coincide with his participation in the Tribal Pride Day celebrations and the annual Kanwar Samaj conference at Bhatagaon B, highlighting the state’s commitment to supporting its agricultural and tribal communities.
