Government Initiates Rice and Paddy Procurement Drive
In a significant move to support farmers and ensure food security, the government has announced plans to procure 700,000 tonnes of rice and paddy during the current Aman season. This initiative aims to maintain stable food stocks and guarantee fair prices for farmers.
The decision was made public by Food Adviser Ali Imam Majumder during a press briefing held after a meeting of the Food Planning and Monitoring Committee at the Secretariat. The meeting was chaired by Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, highlighting the importance of this policy in the national agenda.
Procurement Prices Set to Benefit Farmers
The procurement prices have been carefully set to reflect the production costs and provide farmers with a reasonable profit margin. According to the official announcement, parboiled rice will be procured at Tk 50 per kg, while atap (non-parboiled) rice will be purchased at Tk 49 per kg. Paddy, on the other hand, will be bought at Tk 34 per kg.
Ali Imam Majumder emphasized that these pricing levels were determined with the farmers’ interests at the forefront. “The procurement price has been determined in a way that covers production costs and ensures farmers receive a reasonable profit,” he stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to supporting the agricultural sector.
Breakdown of Targeted Quantity
The targeted quantity of 700,000 tonnes is divided into different categories to meet various market needs. Specifically, 600,000 tonnes will consist of parboiled rice, 50,000 tonnes will be atap rice, and another 50,000 tonnes will be paddy. This distribution reflects the demand for different types of rice in both domestic and international markets.
Timeline for the Procurement Drive
The Aman procurement drive is scheduled to commence on 20th November and will continue until 28th February. This extended period allows for a systematic and efficient procurement process, ensuring that all eligible farmers can participate.
Impact on Farmers and Market Stability
This procurement initiative is expected to have a positive impact on both farmers and the overall market stability. By offering fair prices, the government is not only encouraging increased production but also protecting farmers from price fluctuations that could negatively affect their livelihoods.
Moreover, maintaining a stable food stock is crucial for preventing shortages and ensuring that the population has access to affordable rice. With the current global economic conditions and potential disruptions in supply chains, such proactive measures are essential for safeguarding food security.
Conclusion
The government’s decision to procure 700,000 tonnes of rice and paddy during the Aman season marks a significant step towards supporting the agricultural community and ensuring food security. By setting fair procurement prices and establishing a clear timeline, the government is demonstrating its commitment to the well-being of farmers and the stability of the food market.
As the procurement drive begins, it is hoped that this initiative will lead to increased productivity, better income for farmers, and a more resilient food system for the country. The success of this program will depend on effective implementation and continued monitoring to address any challenges that may arise.