Jharkhand's Bold Paddy Procurement Plan: A Game-Changer for Farmers?

The Jharkhand government aims to procure 60 lakh quintals of paddy starting December 15. Despite challenges, including past delays and droughts, officials promise Rs 2,450 per quintal plus a bonus. The BJP criticizes the government's procurement delays, arguing farmers are forced to sell below market prices.

The Jharkhand government has announced an ambitious plan to procure around 60 lakh quintals of paddy from farmers, commencing December 15, according to an official statement released on Sunday.

Across the state, 783 procurement centres are ready to facilitate the exercise, as State Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs Minister urged public representatives to engage with and support the initiative. The procurement price is set at Rs 2,450 per quintal, supplemented by a state-approved bonus of Rs 81 per quintal, promising to improve farmers' earnings.

Despite the state's proactive measures, the BJP has criticized the government for alleged delays, which have led farmers to sell their paddy in the open market at reduced prices. Leader Babulal Marandi highlighted that farmers have received significantly less, echoing concerns raised during the winter session of the state assembly.