By TC News Desk
Agartala, 15th June 2024: The motor stand of Jolaibari witnessed the inauguration of the official paddy procurement process on Saturday, marked by a ceremonious event aimed at boosting agricultural prosperity in the southern district.
The commencement of paddy procurement was kicked off by the Agriculture and Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath, who led the event alongside several dignitaries including Food Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, Cooperative Minister Shuklacharan Noatia, and MLA Pramod Reang. Food Secretary Revel Hemendra Kumar, South Tripura district’s District Magistrate Siddhartha Shiv Jaiswal, SDM Abedananda Baidya and social worker Ajay Reang also attended the event.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Ratan Lal Nath emphasized the government’s commitment to doubling farmers’ incomes, highlighting the transformative efforts of the Jolaibari Agriculture Department. “Through tireless efforts, both by our officials and farmers, we have seen remarkable agricultural growth, particularly in paddy production,” Minister Nath declared.
In line with the state’s agricultural objectives, official procurement centers have been strategically established across paddy-producing regions to facilitate seamless transactions for farmers. Minister Chowdhury affirmed, “The procurement process will be completed within a month to ensure farmers receive timely payments, especially with the upcoming Panchayat elections in consideration.”
Food Secretary RH Kumar assured prompt financial disbursal, stating, “Efforts are underway to ensure that farmers receive payment directly in their accounts within a day of selling their paddy.”
The event underscored a renewed focus on agricultural development under the current administration, with Minister Nath criticizing previous neglect of farming communities. “Our government is not only buying produce but also expanding markets for various crops, including pineapples, to international markets,” he asserted.
Farmers present at the ceremony expressed gratitude for the initiatives, with local officials and workers recognized for their unwavering dedication amidst natural challenges. Supervisor Shridam Das, Food Department Officer Malay Chowdhury, and worker Shiv Shankar Majumder were lauded for their exceptional contributions.
The inauguration concluded with a palpable sense of optimism among farmers, buoyed by the government’s steadfast commitment to agricultural progress and prosperity.
