The Cabinet has already approved the target of procuring 68 Lakh Metric Ton (LMT) paddy in 2025 at an estimated expenditure of Rs 18,261.17 crore. It also approved a sum of Rs 15,734 crore for paying the Minimum Support Price (MSP) to farmers.

The SOP states, “The Government purchases paddy at MSP to support the small and marginal farmers. It is our responsibility to make the process, proactive, easier, farmer-friendly, and smooth…”

On the paddy procurement limit, the SOP notes, “Farmers should be allowed to sell up to 30 quintals of paddy (one harvesting season), irrespective of land holdings, with a maximum of 90 quintals per farmer for the entire procurement season (year), depending on the size of their land. No local limits or conditions should be imposed either on the quantity of paddy which a farmer can sell or on the procurement process.”

The state government also asked superintendents of police to provide adequate security at procurement centres and prohibited the entry of unauthorised persons at any procurement centre.

“Strict Action Against Non-Compliance: Any bad practices or non-compliance at procurement centres should be reported to the DM/ADM/SDO and DCFS, and strong action should be taken against the purchase officers, rice mills, or any unauthorized persons or miscreants involved in malpractice,” the SOP adds.

Last year, the food department failed to procure 70 LMT paddy required for the ration system in the state.

A senior official of the food department said, “Last year, the enrolment of farmers and rice mills was low. This year, the government has already asked to increase these numbers. On the other hand, many corrupt practices were reported last year, such as farmers getting payment for only 22 kg of paddy after procurement of 25 kg. To curb such practices, the government has formulated an SOP and strict action will be taken if there is any violation.”