TFP Bureau, Raipur, January 9, 2025: A Cabinet Sub-Committee meeting chaired by Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Protection Minister Shri Dayal Das Baghel was held at Mahanadi Bhawan to discuss the comprehensive disposal of paddy procured during the current Kharif marketing season. With the state government estimating procurement of 160-165 lakh metric tonnes of paddy, detailed discussions focused on strategies for auctioning the surplus 40 lakh metric tonnes that exceed allocations for the central and state pools.
The state expects to deposit 70 lakh metric tonnes of paddy in the central pool and 14 lakh metric tonnes in the state pool, making a total of 125 lakh metric tonnes for disposal through these channels. The auction process for the remaining 40 lakh metric tonnes is planned to commence in the second week of February, pending final approval in the next cabinet meeting.
Record Procurement and Payments
Officials reported that 113 lakh metric tonnes of paddy have already been procured under the ongoing campaign, which began on November 14, 2024. Payments amounting to ₹25,549 crore have been disbursed to 21.54 lakh farmers through a bank-linked system. Last year, the state achieved a record procurement of 144.92 lakh metric tonnes of paddy.
Focus on Farmer Welfare and Custom Milling
During the meeting, key issues related to paddy procurement, including token issuance, gunny bag availability, and custom milling processes, were reviewed. Instructions were issued to expedite paddy lifting for custom milling.
Agriculture Development and Farmers Welfare Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam, Forest and Cooperation Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap, and Health and 20-point Implementation Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, who are members of the sub-committee, provided their suggestions to ensure 100% disposal of paddy.
Looking Ahead
Chhattisgarh operates 2,058 cooperative societies and 2,739 procurement centers for paddy purchase. Officials estimate a significant increase in procurement this year, reinforcing the state’s commitment to farmer welfare and food security.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary of the Food Department Mrs. Richa Sharma, Agriculture Secretary Mrs. Shehla Nigar, and Special Secretary of Finance Mr. Mukesh Bansal, among others.
The state government aims to streamline the auction process and ensure that the surplus paddy benefits farmers and the local economy, reflecting Chhattisgarh’s agricultural strength and commitment to development.
