State Government Initiates Paddy Purchase Program to Boost Farmer Income

Agartala, Jun 25, 2024, By Our Correspondent

Agartala, June 25:  In a significant move aimed at enhancing farmer income, the state government has launched a paddy purchase program. Minister for Food, Public Procurement, and Consumer Affairs, Sushant Chowdhury, inaugurated the initiative today at the Madhavbari food warehouse.

Under this program, paddy will be procured from farmers twice a year at the minimum support price. The current purchasing center has set a target of acquiring 518.33 metric tons of paddy within five days, concluding on June 29. The Department of Food, Public Procurement, and Consumer Affairs, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, is facilitating the purchase at a rate of Tk 2,183 per quintal.

Speaking at the event, Minister Chowdhury emphasized the government’s commitment to agricultural development and farmer welfare. Prior to this administration, paddy was not procured from farmers at subsidized prices. Since assuming power in 2018, the state government has taken decisive steps to support farmers by procuring paddy twice annually at the minimum support price. This landmark decision aims to empower farmers and foster self-reliance.

Various dignitaries, including Jiraniya Panchayat Samiti Vice Chairman Pritam Debnath and Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department Director Sharadindu Das, addressed the gathering. Ratan Kumar Das, chairperson of Jiraniya Nagar Panchayat, expressed gratitude, while Sub-Divisional Ruler of Jiraniya Sub-division Shantiranjan Chakma delivered the welcome address. Manju Das, Chairman of Jiraniya Panchayat Samiti, Prabir Kumar Das (Vice Chairperson of Ranirbazar Municipal Council), and Animesh Debvarma (Acting Director of Food, Public Procurement, and Consumer Affairs Department) were also present.