15.53 lakh MT wheat procured on support price

Bhopal: As much as 15.53 lakh MT wheat has been procured on support price so far in Madhya Pradesh following relaxation in quality of wheat given by the Central government. Now, about 1.50 lakh MT wheat is being procured daily on an average at 2969 procurement centres. So far, 12 lakh 15 thousand MT of procured wheat has been safely transported and stored. This year, wheat is being procured from farmers at the rate of Rs. 1450 per quintal. So far, Rs. 2,252 crore has been paid to farmers against procurement of wheat.

Process of wheat procurement on support price in the state began at 2969 procurement centres from March 25, which will last till May 26. This year, 18 lakh 68 thousand farmers have got registered for selling wheat on support price. Farmers are being informed about procurement date through SMS to save them inconvenience. So far, over 2 lakh 22 thousand farmers have sold wheat on support price.

Arrangements of tarpaulin and sieves at procurement centres

Directives have been given to keep tarpaulin sheets at procurement centres in view of continuous untimely rains in the state. Arrangements of sieves have also been made at procurement centres. Madhya Pradesh State Civil Supplies Corporation has been appointed nodal agency for procurement of wheat on support price. Funds have been transferred directly to bank accounts of cooperative societies engaged in procurement work. Due to it, farmers are getting payment soon after selling their produce.

Committees headed by collectors

Food and Civil Supplies Corporation has directed to constitute district-level committees headed by collectors in districts to ensure smooth procurement. The committees are holding regular meetings. District officers are also making regular inspections of procurement centres.