CM Nitish Kumar Reviews Paddy Procurement for Kharif Marketing Year 2024-25, Focuses on Farmers’ Welfare
Patna, November 1, 2024 : Chief Minister Nitish Kumar held a crucial review meeting to discuss the paddy procurement process for the Kharif marketing year 2024-25. The meeting was conducted at ‘Sankalp’, the Chief Minister’s office located at 1 Ane Marg, Patna. In the meeting, the CM laid out the government’s strategy to ensure that farmers across Bihar face no inconvenience during the procurement of paddy, which is a key staple crop in the state.
With the Kharif season approaching its end, CM Kumar made it clear that the state government is fully committed to supporting farmers in all aspects of the procurement process. He stressed the importance of providing hassle-free services and ensuring that payments for the harvested crops are made promptly and without delay. The government, according to the CM, is prepared to assist farmers in every possible way to ensure that their interests are safeguarded.
Focus on Timely Payments and Efficient Procurement
In his address, CM Nitish Kumar highlighted the need for efficient and timely procurement operations across the state. He instructed officials to ensure that farmers do not encounter unnecessary delays in the procurement of their paddy. Ensuring that the entire process, from procurement to payment, is smooth and efficient is a priority, the CM emphasized.
As part of the government’s plan to streamline the process, the CM directed that district-wise targets be set for paddy procurement in accordance with the estimated paddy production of each district. These targets would help local authorities manage procurement operations more effectively and ensure that no area faces shortages or inefficiencies.
“The aim is to speed up the entire procurement process without compromising on quality,” CM Nitish Kumar said. He reiterated that the government is committed to making sure that the farmers receive the minimum support price (MSP) for their paddy without facing any challenges. The meeting also discussed the setting up of procurement centers and the deployment of adequate staff to manage the influx of paddy at these centers.
Measures to Improve Procurement Efficiency
To make the process faster and more organized, the CM called for improvements in the operational framework of the procurement centers. He advised that measures be put in place to facilitate faster unloading, quality checks, and transportation of the harvested paddy. The CM instructed the officials to set up proper systems for maintaining transparency and ensuring that all transactions are recorded accurately.
Bihar is one of India’s top rice-producing states, and paddy procurement plays a vital role in supporting the livelihood of farmers. CM Nitish Kumar emphasized the need for proper coordination between local administration, agricultural officials, and procurement agencies to ensure that the entire process runs smoothly.
In addition to discussing procurement logistics, the CM also highlighted the importance of timely payments to farmers. He assured farmers that their payments would be processed quickly and that any issues related to payments would be addressed without delay.
Government’s Commitment to Farmers
The review meeting underscored the Bihar government’s continued commitment to improving the agricultural sector and ensuring the well-being of farmers. The state government has been proactive in addressing the concerns of farmers, and this meeting was part of a broader effort to ensure that all support mechanisms are in place for the upcoming procurement season.
“Farmers are the backbone of our economy, and it is essential that we provide them with all the support they need,” CM Nitish Kumar added. The government is also planning to conduct regular monitoring of procurement activities and address any issues that arise during the procurement season.
The Kharif marketing year 2024-25 is expected to see a significant increase in paddy production in Bihar, and the state government aims to ensure that this increased production is procured effectively, benefiting both the farmers and the state economy.