Suryapet, Nov.17 (NSS): Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao visited a paddy procurement center at Tekumtla village of Suryapet district on Sunday.
During his visit, the Minister interacted with farmers to understand the facilities being provided at the center and inquired about their crop yields for the kharif season.
Farmers expressed their satisfaction, reporting yields exceeding 40 bags per acre.
The farmers also mentioned that the open market is offering competitive prices, with millers purchasing paddy directly from the fields without enforcing strict moisture content norms. Some farmers shared that they prefer selling to private buyers due to the higher rates offered, exceeding the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and the bonus declared by the government.
Responding to this, Minister Tummala explained that paddy procured by the government is stored in warehouses and later processed for quality rice distribution through fair price shops.
He emphasised that adhering to the 17 percent moisture content norm ensures the quality and longevity of the stock. The Minister reiterated that the government is committed to ensuring fair prices for farmers, whether through state procurement or private sales.
He also noted that neighboring States are purchasing paddy from Telangana at attractive prices, a testament to the bonus declared by the state government.
Expressing concerns over the reports of paddy straw burning by farmers, Tummala Nageswara Rao directed the Agriculture department to conduct awareness campaigns over the next 15 days to highlight the consequences of such practices. He also suggested passing resolutions in village meetings to curb this activity.
Tummala Nageswara Rao instructed district collectors and special officers to monitor the procurement of paddy and cotton daily, ensuring farmers face no hurdles during the process.
