Tamil Nadu's Enhanced Paddy Procurement Boosts Farmer Confidence

Tamil Nadu is ramping up its daily procurement of paddy as per directives from Chief Minister M K Stalin, according to Agriculture Minister M R K Panneerselvam. The minister addressed accusations from Opposition Leader Edappadi K Palaniswami, who claimed misinformation regarding the state's paddy procurement process.

In a statement at the Secretariat, Panneerselvam emphasized that the current administration procures approximately 1,000 bags of paddy daily, a significant increase from the previous quota of 600 bags under the AIADMK government. He criticized Palaniswami's remarks on increasing procurement to 2,000 bags, pointing out that past regulations limited Direct Procurement Centres to 600-700 bags.

The minister cited record paddy production levels attributed to favorable rainfall, with 1.6 lakh metric tonnes procured this year from the delta districts. Measures have been implemented to prevent improper storage and promote efficient transport to godowns. Additionally, increased irrigation from the Mettur dam and expanded electricity connections have bolstered agricultural output.