Hyderabad, May 26 (RAHNUMA): Minister for Irrigation and Civil Supplies N. Uttam Kumar Reddy stated that the Union government’s approach towards paddy procurement was “demonstrative of scant concern for farmers” despite Telangana handling one of the country’s largest grain procurement operations.
During an informal media interaction at the Secretariat on Tuesday, Uttam Kumar Reddy said the Congress government in Telangana was procuring paddy on a scale unmatched by most BJP-ruled states while the Centre was “failing to discharge its responsibility” towards farmers.
He said Telangana had already procured nearly 54 lakh metric tonnes of paddy and was targeting procurement of around 70 lakh metric tonnes during the ongoing Yasangi season through an extensive network of 8,575 procurement centres spread across the State.
“The entire paddy procured by the State must be lifted by the Centre at the declared MSP. The Union government cannot evade its responsibility after announcing Minimum Support Price,” the Minister asserted.
Accusing BJP leaders of indulging in political criticism while ignoring ground realities, Uttam Kumar Reddy said Telangana was purchasing more paddy than several BJP-governed states put together.
“Before criticising Telangana, BRS leaders should first check how much procurement happened during their ten-year rule. Even compared to previous regime, this government has procured more paddy and ensured faster payments to farmers,” he said.
The Minister claimed the State government was ensuring procurement till the “last grain” and depositing payments into farmers’ bank accounts within 48 hours.
He also highlighted the financial burden being borne by the State government due to delays and gaps in Central support. According to him, Telangana had already spent nearly Rs 9,000 crore towards procurement payments this season by May-end and would cross around Rs 11,500 crore if MSP-linked dues were fully accounted for.
Taking a political swipe at the BJP, Uttam Kumar Reddy questioned the rationale behind Central leaders undertaking political tours in Telangana while allegedly remaining indifferent to procurement responsibilities.
“The Centre is neglecting farmers while Telangana is standing firmly with them. BJP leaders must explain how much paddy their own states are procuring compared to Telangana,” he said.
The Minister reiterated that the Congress government remained committed to protecting farmer interests despite logistical pressures, mounting arrivals and financial stress on the State exchequer.
