Jammu: 21 Wheat Procurement Centers to be Established
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Synopsis
In Jammu, a meeting was held to finalize arrangements for the procurement of wheat for the Rabi Marketing Season 2025-26. The establishment of 21 procurement centers aims to support farmers and ensure they receive the Minimum Support Price.
Key Takeaways
- 21 procurement centers to be established in Jammu Division.
- Focus on minimum support price of Rs 2,425 per quintal.
- Direct procurement through Food Corporation of India.
- Emphasis on infrastructure and logistical support.
- Engagement of Farmer Producer Organizations in the process.
Jammu, April 8, (NationPress) With the harvesting season on the horizon, a meeting convened on Tuesday at the Directorate of Agriculture with the Director of Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare. The purpose was to meticulously assess and finalize the plans for procuring wheat for the Rabi Marketing Season (RMS) 2025-26.
An official announcement indicated that the Director of Agriculture stressed the necessity of optimizing wheat procurement operations. This includes a focus on ensuring a seamless and timely process through direct procurement from farmers by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) utilizing the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.
The Director pointed out that the creation of procurement centers is vital to avert distress sales of wheat by farmers and to guarantee they obtain the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Rs 2,425 per quintal, as established by the Ministry of Agriculture, Production and Farmers Welfare.
An official stated that the meeting included comprehensive discussions regarding the strategic selection and finalization of procurement center locations, considering accessibility and feasibility for farmers.
It was revealed that a total of 21 wheat procurement centers (Mandis) will be set up across Jammu Division, comprising 11 in Jammu district, nine in Kathua, and one in Samba.
The official further indicated that attention was directed towards providing essential infrastructure, such as space, gunny bags, logistical support, and other necessary resources to effectively establish the procurement centers.
“Significant agenda points discussed included uploading specifications, appointing MLCs and DNOs, engaging Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in the procurement process, identifying and preparing procurement centers, assessing current crop conditions and expected wheat arrival dates, streamlining payments, and arranging gunny bags,” he stated.
Moreover, the Director urged that cleaning charges be determined by the Deputy Commissioners and instructed that the Agriculture Department will assist in providing tarpaulin sheets for procurement operations.
He also encouraged extensive information sharing among farmers to ensure maximum involvement in the procurement process.
FCI officials confirmed that they will be prepared to accept wheat stocks until May 31, 2025, with the possibility of extending the deadline if required.
