Raipur. Procurement of paddy has started across the state. Despite this, paddy procurement centers are still lying deserted. It is being said that people are waiting for the arrival of the new government. Both BJP and Congress have made announcements regarding paddy procurement.
Paddy purchase included in election promises
Congress has promised to purchase 20 quintals of paddy per acre at the rate of Rs 3,200, while BJP has announced to purchase 21 quintals of paddy at the rate of Rs 3,100. Also, this time BJP has also promised to give two years bonus in its manifesto.
So far 5 percent has been purchased
If we look at the data of paddy procurement, it is found that till now only five percent of the paddy has been purchased. More than one farmer in the state has sold more than 5 lakh tonnes of paddy so far.
The government has also released an amount of Rs 958.08 crore to the farmers selling paddy.
Delay due to festive season
Experts say that this time there is a delay in selling paddy due to the festive season and elections. Moreover, this time the harvesting of paddy was also delayed due to which it took more time for the crop to arrive. Because of this the paddy has not yet reached the procurement centres.
On one hand waiting for the new government
At the same time, other people are also seen saying that they will sell their paddy on December 3 because both the parties have promised to purchase paddy from the government of any party. It is certain that farmers will benefit from this.
Purchasing is taking place from 1st November
Let us tell you that paddy procurement has started in the state from November 1st. This time the government has set a possible target of purchasing 125 lakh tonnes of paddy. The government will purchase paddy from 25 lakh farmers of the state.
Paddy will be purchased till 31 January 2024
This paddy procurement will continue till January 31, 2024. Similarly, maize procurement has also started from November 1, 2023 and will continue till February 28, 2024.
Farmers have hope from the new government
At present, on selling paddy, farmers will be paid the current rate of Rs 2,183 per quintal but only the Bhugda rate. Farmers believe that after December 3, they will get the benefit of support price as well as the schemes of the state government. Due to this, the price of paddy will be higher.