STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: In anticipation of the upcoming harvesting season, a crucial meeting was held today at the Directorate of Agriculture, Talab Tillo, Jammu, chaired by Director Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare, Arvinder Singh Reen. The meeting aimed to meticulously review and finalize arrangements for the procurement of wheat produce for the Rabi season crop year 2023-24 in collaboration with the Food Corporation of India (FCI).
During the deliberations, key modalities were discussed, focusing on ensuring smooth and timely procurement of wheat by FCI.
Emphasis was placed on providing necessary facilities such as space, gunny bags, technical assistance, logistic support, and other essential resources required for organizing procurement mandis.
The concerted efforts of both the Agriculture Department and FCI were underscored to streamline the procurement process effectively.
Director Agriculture reiterated the primary objective of establishing these procurement centers, which is to alleviate farmers from distress sale of their produce and ensure they receive the minimum support price of Rs 2275 per quintal as notified by the Ministry for Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare. Additionally, participants were directed to strategically select and finalize the locations of procurement centers based on feasibility and catchment area considerations.
Highlighting the importance of sustainable agricultural practices, the Director emphasized the need to identify government land for a permanent market (mandi yard) to optimize procurement processes in the long term.
It was disclosed during the meeting that an estimated procurement of 20,000 Metric Tons of wheat is anticipated during the current Rabi season. FCI officers assured their full readiness to receive stocks till 31st May, with a provision for extension till 15th June if necessary.
The meeting was attended by Divisional Manager FCI, Parveen Gautam, Manager FCI, Mohd. Imran, Liaison Officer/SMS Rl Marketing, Dharmesh Vaid, along with other agriculture officials.