In preparation for the procurement of rabi grain, the Civil Supplies Department of Telangana has finalized arrangements to commence operations from April 1. With a target set to collect 75.20 lakh tonnes of paddy this season, the department has completed the necessary groundwork and logistical arrangements for grain collection.
In a recent meeting chaired by the Civil Supplies Commissioner, discussions were held with officials from various departments including Agriculture, Marketing, and Warehousing, to streamline the procurement process. The department aims to ensure efficient grain collection and provision of necessary facilities to facilitate the operation smoothly.
The procurement target for the season stands at 75.20 lakh tonnes, with an estimated rice cultivation area of 66.06 lakh acres across the state. Despite the ambitious target, reports from the Agriculture Department indicate that only 50.62 lakh acres of rice have been cultivated so far. Experts suggest that setting a higher procurement target may pose challenges in achieving the desired grain collection.
To facilitate grain procurement, the department has decided to open 7,149 purchase centers across 32 districts, an increase from the previous year. Notably, the highest number of centers, 466, will be established in Nizamabad district, followed by 417 in Siddipet, 415 in Jagityala, and 410 in Medak district, reflecting the distribution of rice cultivation across the state.
Emphasizing the importance of timely procurement and delivery, Commissioner Chauhan directed officials to complete milling of the procured grain by September 30. Strict measures have been enforced to ensure that only government personnel are present at the purchase centers, with warnings of stringent action against unauthorized individuals, including rice millers and private staff.
Furthermore, the Commissioner stressed the importance of maintaining quality standards, highlighting that subpar quality would tarnish Telangana’s brand reputation. Additionally, plans are in place to sell 35 lakh tonnes of dry rice through tenders, with immediate lifting of the procured stock.
As the procurement season approaches, the Civil Supplies Department remains committed to ensuring efficient and transparent operations, crucial for supporting agricultural communities and maintaining food security in the state.
