Agri department taking steps to procure 35,000 metric tonnes paddy in Mahbubnagar

Mahbubnagar: With ample rains this Kharif season, the Agriculture department in Mahbubnagar district is expecting high yields of paddy and other food grains in the district. According to Joint Collector Swarnalatha, who spoke at a review meeting on condition of agriculture sector and production of yields of various crops in the district, she said they were expecting good and high yields where the paddy yields are expected to touch 50,000 metric tonne mark. As the agriculture department has predicted huge paddy yields, it has directed the authorities concerned and the marketing department officials to get ready for a record procurement target of 35,000 metric tonnes.

"Though the beginning of Kharif season was a bit concern for the farmers as the cropping season starting very late. However, the farming activity in the district picked up considerably in the months of July and August as the regular rains helped the crops to withstand early dry weather in Kharif. Now with the season to end soon, we are expecting a very good paddy harvest this time. Accordingly, we have also directed the marketing and agriculture departments to prepare for the proposals of the procurement of paddy and other grains from the farmers," informed the Joint Collector.

The official has also directed the Civil Supplies and Public Distribution Department officials to get ready with the adequate storage facilities, gunny bags and other facilities. Though the department has set a target of procuring 35,000 metric tonnes of paddy and other grains, the Joint Collector has directed the officials to get ready with storage facilities that can accommodate 45,000 metric tonnes.

"By October first week, we are expecting the paddy will flood into markets. By that time, we have given directions to the concerned officials to ensure all the facilities are put in place to carry out a smooth procurement process," informed the official.