CM warns officials on moisture content discrepancies in rice procurement

On 20 Dec 2024 16:35:46

Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has issued a stern warning to officials, stating that any injustice to rice farmers

• Transparency in procurement process crucial to build trust among farmers

Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has issued a stern warning to officials, stating that any injustice to rice farmers due to discrepancies in moisture content registration will not be tolerated. He emphasized that if the moisture content reading at the Rythu Seva Kendra matches the measurement at the rice mill, it should be recorded accordingly.

Any deviation, he cautioned, would lead to stringent action against the responsible parties. During a visit to the Rythu Seva Kendra in Gangur, Krishna district, on Friday, accompanied by ministers Nadendla Manohar and Kollu Ravindra, CM Chandrababu interacted with farmers and issued key directives to officials to ensure transparency and fairness in the procurement process. Farmer Aakunuri Sambasiva Rao shared his experiences with the Chief Minister, highlighting a significant improvement in this year's crop compared to the previous year.

He noted that the mission cut system had reduced costs, saving farmers approximately Rs 5,000 -Rs 6,000 per acre. Additionally, he pointed out that selling grass to biofuel plants could fetch an extra Rs 5,000 per acre. "Earlier, manual harvesting incurred a total cost of Rs 25,000 per acre, including Rs 6,000 for cutting, Rs 6,000 for piling, and Rs 3,000 for transport," explained Sambasiva Rao. "Now, with the new system, the expenses are significantly lower, and payments for the grain are being received without delays." CM Chandrababu personally observed the grain collection process at the Seva Kendra and reviewed how the moisture content of rice is measured.

Officials assured him that all machines used for moisture content calibration are thoroughly checked before the harvest season begins. Stressing the importance of leveraging technology, CM Chandrababu directed officials to record the productivity of each farmer and village. He encouraged the dissemination of best cultivation practices among farmers and emphasized that the variety of rice cultivated should align with market preferences.

The Chief Minister further instructed officials to ensure proper scheduling for procurement, including individual and part-scheduling for separately harvested crops. "Transparency in the procurement process is crucial to building trust among farmers," he said.