State govt intensifies paddy buying, pays Rs. 560 cr to farmers

 Vijayawada: The state government intensified paddy procurement across the state, purchasing 2,36,284 metric tonne (MT) so far, 30 per cent higher than the corresponding period last year, civil supplies and consumer affairs minister Nadendla Manohar said on Tuesday.

Addressing the media at the Civil Supplies Bhavan at Kanuru in Vijayawada Rural, the minister said the government is ensuring transparent and hassle-free procurement. A total of 32,793 farmers have sold their paddy this season, and Rs 560.48 crore has already been credited directly to their bank accounts.

Manohar noted that nearly 16,000 field staff, along with district collectors and joint collectors, are continuously monitoring the procurement process.

“Farmers have shown immense trust in us, and we are honouring that trust through honest and transparent operations,” he said. Compared to last year, the number of farmers who sold paddy has risen by 36 per cent, with a large share being small and marginal farmers. Around 6,600 tenant farmers have also benefited.

The minister highlighted that the coalition government has set a national benchmark by ensuring payments within 48 hours, and in many cases, within 24 hours.

He cited examples such as a farmer in Guntur district, whose payment of Rs 2.08 lakh was processed in just 6 hours, and another in Eluru district who received payment within 5 hours.

To support farmers during procurement, the government has supplied 6.34 crore gunny bags and arranged GPS tracking for all transport vehicles.

In view of the low-pressure weather alert for November 23–24, about 50,000 tarpaulins were distributed to Rythu Bharosa Centres, with 19,000 provided free to farmers so far.

For the first time in India, farmers can schedule their paddy delivery through WhatsApp, choosing the date, time, and mill.

Nearly 500 farmers have already used the service. Farmers can send a message to 73373 59375 to receive automated updates on crop details and procurement schedules. Further, problems can be reported via the 1967 toll-free number.

Manohar said the government aims to create history by procuring 51 lakh MT paddy this season, adding fine-variety paddy is also being purchased to ensure high-quality rice for school midday meal schemes.

AP Civil Supplies Corporation vice-chairman and MD S Dilli Rao was also present at the briefing.