Prayagraj District Achieves Record Paddy Procurement with 105% Target Fulfillment
In a significant agricultural milestone, Prayagraj district has set a new record for paddy procurement following government purchases at an increased Minimum Support Price (MSP). This achievement is attributed to the expansion of procurement centers and the effective elimination of middlemen, ensuring direct benefits to farmers.
Procurement Figures Show Remarkable Growth
District Food and Marketing Officer Avinash Chandra Sagarwal reported that paddy procurement for the financial year commenced on November 1 and concluded on February 28. Against a target of 2.73 lakh metric tonnes, the district successfully procured 2.88 lakh metric tonnes, representing an impressive 105% of the goal. This marks a substantial increase from previous years; during the same period last year, 2.73 lakh metric tonnes were procured, while in 2023-24, the figure was only 2.1 lakh metric tonnes.
Expansion of Procurement Centers Enhances Accessibility
To ensure the administration reached a greater number of farmers, the number of procurement centers in the district was significantly increased. This year, 177 paddy procurement centers were established, compared to 161 last year. Earlier, there were only 88 centers, highlighting a strategic effort to improve farmer access and streamline the procurement process.
Direct Payments and Technological Integration
A key feature of this year's procurement was the implementation of direct payments to farmers' accounts within 48 hours of sale. By February 28, a total of 47,714 farmers in the district received payments directly into their accounts, eliminating delays and enhancing financial security.
To facilitate efficient paddy procurement and timely payments, the government introduced an OTP-based single registration system. Funds were transferred directly to Aadhaar-linked bank accounts, removing the need for any referrals or intermediaries. Additionally, paddy procurement at centers was conducted using e-POP (electronic point of purchase) devices, ensuring transparency and reducing paperwork.
Impact on Farmers and Agricultural Sector
The record procurement not only boosts local agriculture but also supports farmers by providing fair prices through the increased MSP. The elimination of middlemen has empowered farmers, allowing them to receive full benefits without deductions. This initiative aligns with broader government efforts to strengthen the agricultural economy and ensure food security.
Overall, Prayagraj's success in paddy procurement sets a benchmark for other districts, demonstrating how targeted policies and technological adoption can drive agricultural growth and farmer welfare.
