Uttar Pradesh Government Initiates Wheat Procurement Drive from Monday
The state government of Uttar Pradesh is set to commence the procurement of wheat from farmers across the state starting Monday, with the operation scheduled to continue until June 15. This annual initiative aims to support agricultural communities by ensuring fair prices for their produce.
Enhanced Procurement Targets and Increased MSP
In a significant move, the government has raised the procurement target from 30 lakh to 50 lakh metric tonnes, reflecting a robust commitment to bolstering the agricultural sector. Wheat will be purchased at a Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Rs 2,585 per quintal, which marks an increase of Rs 160 compared to the previous year, providing farmers with improved financial returns.
Extensive Infrastructure and Registration Details
To facilitate this large-scale procurement, the government plans to establish 6,500 procurement centres through eight agencies, including the Food Department's marketing branch. As of now, 3,574 centres are already operational and will function daily from 9 am to 6 pm. Farmers are required to register on the official portal fcs.up.gov.in or via the 'UP Kisan Mitra app' to participate in the sale of wheat. For assistance, a toll-free number, 18001800150, has been made available to address any issues.
Streamlined Processes and Additional Benefits
The procurement process has been fully digitized to enhance transparency and prevent the involvement of middlemen. Payments will be made directly to farmers' accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) within 48 hours of sale. Additionally, farmers will receive an extra Rs 20 per quintal for handling and cleaning costs, further augmenting their income.
Focus on Farmer Welfare and Basic Amenities
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued directives to ensure that all procurement centres are equipped with essential facilities such as shade, drinking water, and seating arrangements. This emphasis on comfort and convenience underscores the government's dedication to farmer welfare during the procurement season.
According to a senior official, over 2.24 lakh farmers have already registered for the procurement drive, indicating strong participation and anticipation among the agricultural community. This initiative is poised to significantly impact the state's economy and support its farming population.
