Agartala: Dec 19: A new program to procure paddy from farmers at a rate of Rs. 2300 per quintal was launched on Thursday by the Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. The program was inaugurated by Minister Sushanta Chowdhury at an event held at the Inter-State Truck Terminal in Jirania Madhab Bari. Minister Ratan Lal Nath and other officials were also present at the launch.
In his speech, Minister Sushanta Chowdhury emphasized that the current government is committed to the welfare of the people. He highlighted that while in the past, there were concerns about the central government’s deprivation, under the present “double-engine” government, everything is provided to the people even before they ask for it, whether it be in sectors like infrastructure, agriculture, or tourism. The government’s objective is to ensure that Tripura can compete with other states and make progress.
The minister also pointed out that the decision to procure paddy from farmers was made in the first cabinet meeting after the government assumed office. This initiative aims to strengthen the economic foundation of farmers. To date, paddy worth over Rs. 397 crore has been procured from more than 1.07 lakh farmers in the state. He emphasized that the government understands the importance of farmers as the country’s food providers and has taken multiple decisions in their favor, including the Kisan Samman Nidhi and paddy procurement programs.
Minister Ratan Lal Nath added that 2.76 lakh farmers have received Rs. 790 crore in 18 installments. He also noted that while the market price of paddy is Rs. 700 per maund, the government is procuring it at Rs. 920 crore. Additionally, 3.72 lakh farmers have received agricultural loans worth Rs. 2025 crore. The government is also working to improve agricultural markets to ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their produce, positioning itself as a farmer-friendly administration.
