BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 25th June 2024: In a significant move to enhance the livelihoods of farmers, the state government has initiated a program to purchase paddy from farmers twice a year at the minimum support price. This initiative aimed at doubling the income of farmers was officially launched on Tuesday by the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs minister Sushanta Chowdhury at the Madhabbari food godown.
“Today marks an important step in our commitment to the agricultural sector. Our government has consistently prioritized the welfare of farmers since coming into power in 2018, and purchasing paddy at a minimum subsidized price twice annually is a testament to this commitment”, Minister Chowdhury announced.
The Madhabbari paddy procurement center under this program aims to procure 518.33 metric tons of paddy over the next five days concluding on June 29. This effort is a collaborative initiative between the Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs and the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. Farmers will receive Rs 2,183 per quintal for their paddy, a rate designed to ensure fair compensation.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Chowdhury highlighted the broader goals of the initiative. “Our government has introduced several programs for agricultural development and farmer welfare. Historically, paddy was not purchased from farmers at subsidized prices in our state. However, since our administration assumed office in 2018, we have implemented this biannual procurement at minimum support prices. This decision is a landmark step towards making our farmers self-reliant and prosperous. The enthusiasm and support from the farming community are truly encouraging.”
The launch event also saw speeches from other notable officials, including Jirania Panchayat Samiti Vice-Chairman Pritam Debnath and Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department Director Sharadindu Das, who praised the initiative for its potential to transform the agricultural landscape.
Chairperson of Jirania Nagar Panchayat Ratan Kumar Das expressed gratitude on behalf of the farmers while SDM of Jirania sub-division Shanti Ranjan Chakma delivered a warm welcome address. The event was attended by several other dignitaries, including Chairman of Jirania Panchayat Samiti Manju Das, Vice Chairperson of Ranirbazar Municipal Council Prabir Kumar Das, and Director of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs department Animesh Debbarma.
