Rice and paddy procurement: Farmers’ interests come first

Even though the official paddy procurement drive began on Thursday, April 24, concerns have arisen about how much the target will be fulfilled due to the price fixation.

The government fixed price of paddy reportedly has not allayed farmers’ concerns.

We witness this type of crisis almost every year. As a result, the target is not met and the government is unable to intervene in the market.

This clearly shows the upward trend in the rice market over the long period. It is important to procure rice and paddy to the target.

According to media reports, the government has increased the price of paddy by four taka per kg this year compared to last year, but the question remains whether it is justified in light of reality. However, the government is saying that farmers will benefit from the additional price.

It is learnt that due to various reasons, marginal farmers cannot provide paddy to government warehouses. Because of these hassles, including moisture testing, opening bank accounts, and transporting paddy to the warehouse, farmers give priority to selling paddy to moneylenders. This also hurts farmers, and on the other hand, the government cannot meet its desired targets.

Although the government’s procurement policy aims to maintain a certain amount of paddy in the warehouse at all times, in reality it is not achieved. Even if the government tries to fill the deficit through imports, it is also not possible. For this, we have been urging the government to increase its reliance on the domestic market for food security. That is why it is important to take all possible measures to ensure the procurement target of paddy and rice.

Reportedly, the government has set a target of purchasing 3.5 lakh tonnes of paddy at Tk 36 per kg in the current Boro season, while 1.4 lakh tonnes of parboiled rice at Tk 49 per kg. Since more production occurs during the Boro season, this time should be given priority to meet this target of paddy and rice procurement.

To ensure the food security of the country, sincere and united efforts of all parties, including farmers, rice mill owners, and the government, are essential. As this time the price of fuel and electricity, along with fertilizers, pesticides and laborer wages, has increased, the faire price for farmers must be a priority.