The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution on Sunday said that the Food Corporation Of India (FCI) and state agencies have procured 85.41 lakh metric tonne (LMT) of paddy in Punjab during Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2024-2025 as of November 2.
As of 2 November 2024, a total quantity of 90.69 LMT of paddy has arrived in the Punjab mandis out of which 85.41 LMT have been procured by state agencies and FCI. The paddy is being purchased at MSP at Rs 2320.
Further, 4640 millers have applied for shelling of paddy and 4132 millers have already been allotted work by the Punjab state government.
The procurement of Paddy for KMS 2024-25 has commenced in Punjab from 1 October 2024 and 2927 designated mandis and temporary yards are operational throughout the State for smooth procurement from the farmers of Punjab.
Notably, the central government has fixed an estimated target of 185 LMT for Paddy Procurement for the ongoing KMS 2024-25 which shall continue upto 30 November 2024.
"Though the procurement commenced a bit late due to heavy rains in September and high moisture content in paddy, it is back on track and has picked up in full swing now," it stated.
The ministry stated that the Centre disbursed Rs 19,800 crore benefitting four lakh farmers and “Punjab paddy procurement in full swing, 4132 millers allotted work,” it added.