Centre Ensures Smooth Paddy Procurement in Punjab, Launches Grievance Portal

GG News Bureau
Chandigarh, 28th Oct. Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Pralhad Joshi, held a press conference today to outline the government’s measures for seamless paddy and Custom Milled Rice (CMR) procurement in Punjab for Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2024-25. He affirmed that the target of 185 lakh metric tons (LMT) will be fully procured, ensuring that no grain of paddy is left unprocured.

The procurement of paddy began on October 1, 2024, with 2,700 designated mandis established to facilitate operations. Although heavy rainfall in September caused slight delays, the state is now on track to meet its target by November 2024. As of October 26, 2024, Punjab has received 54.5 LMT of paddy, with 50 LMT already procured.

Minister Joshi highlighted the increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for common paddy, which has risen from ₹1,310 per quintal in 2013-14 to ₹2,300 per quintal for 2024-25. Additionally, he announced an upcoming online grievance redressal portal for rice millers to address any challenges they face.

Efforts to ensure adequate storage for CMR are underway, with high-level meetings conducted with the Punjab government. Plans are in place for speedy wheat stock evacuation to other states, and around 15 LMT of storage space is currently available in Punjab. CMR deliveries typically start in December, with sufficient storage expected by then.

Addressing concerns from millers regarding the Out Turn Ratio (OTR) of paddy to rice, the Minister noted that uniform specifications are maintained across India. A study is underway by IIT Kharagpur to review current OTR and drainge incidentals for paddy. Furthermore, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) has been authorized to allow additional transportation charges if vacant space in designated depots is unavailable for more than 15 days, addressing the transportation challenges faced by millers.