Will Centre-Deputed Expert Teams Assess Paddy Moisture Levels in Tamil Nadu Starting Today?
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Synopsis
Starting today, expert teams from the Union government will evaluate moisture levels in Tamil Nadu's paddy crops. This inspection is crucial as it may lead to relaxed procurement norms amidst challenging weather conditions. Farmers await the outcomes that could significantly impact their livelihoods during this Kuruvai season.
Key Takeaways
- Expert teams from the Union government are assessing moisture levels in Tamil Nadu's paddy.
- The inspections aim to determine if moisture limits can be relaxed.
- Continuous rainfall has impacted the quality of harvested paddy.
- Findings will influence procurement practices and farmer support.
- The procurement for the Kuruvai season began on September 1.
Chennai, Oct 25 (NationPress) In a significant move, three teams of experts dispatched by the Union government will initiate inspections throughout Tamil Nadu starting Saturday. Their objective is to evaluate the moisture content in paddy harvested during the ongoing Kuruvai season, as confirmed by the Tamil Nadu Civil Supplies Corporation (TNCSC).
This initiative comes in response to a request from the state government made on October 19, which sought approval to elevate the acceptable moisture threshold for procured paddy from 17 percent to 22 percent.
The request was triggered by relentless northeast monsoon rains that have left newly harvested paddy crops damp across the delta and northern districts.
As per the TNCSC, the inspection teams are set to commence their assessments on Saturday. The first team will start with Chengalpattu district on October 25, followed by Tiruvallur and Kancheepuram on Sunday.
The second team will evaluate Thanjavur and Mayiladuthurai on October 25, subsequently moving to Tiruvarur and Nagapattinam on October 26, and Cuddalore on October 27.
The third team will inspect paddy in Tiruchi and Pudukottai on October 25, followed by Madurai and Theni on October 26.
The purpose of these inspections is to ascertain the actual moisture levels in the harvested paddy stocks and to determine if procurement criteria can be relaxed without jeopardizing grain quality or storage stability.
The reports from the three teams will be forwarded to the Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, which will ultimately decide on Tamil Nadu's request.
The procurement of Kuruvai paddy for the 2025–26 season began on September 1 at 1,839 direct procurement centres statewide.
Despite challenging weather conditions, procurement efforts are ongoing, with collaboration between the TNCSC and district administrations, according to officials.
"All measures are in place to ensure smooth and uninterrupted procurement operations. The observations made by the inspection teams will play a pivotal role in determining flexibility for farmers impacted by the ongoing rainfall," stated a TNCSC official.
The outcomes of the inspection teams' findings are anticipated to significantly affect both the speed and pricing of the current procurement initiative, which is crucial for farmers in the delta and northern regions whose paddy crops have suffered due to the early arrival of the monsoon.
Point of View
The proactive approach taken by the Union government to deploy expert teams for moisture level assessments reflects a commitment to supporting farmers during adverse weather conditions. The findings will be crucial in ensuring that procurement practices are flexible, safeguarding both the quality of grain and the livelihoods of those affected.
NationPress
26/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the inspections?
The inspections aim to evaluate the moisture levels in paddy harvested during the Kuruvai season and determine if procurement norms can be adjusted without compromising grain quality.
Why is the moisture limit being raised?
The moisture limit is being raised in response to continuous northeast monsoon rains that have dampened the freshly harvested crops.
How many teams are deployed for this task?
Three expert teams have been dispatched by the Union government to conduct these inspections across Tamil Nadu.
What areas will the teams cover?
The teams will cover several districts including Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Thanjavur, Mayiladuthurai, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Cuddalore, Tiruchi, Pudukottai, Madurai, and Theni.
What impact will the findings have?
The findings will influence the procurement process, potentially affecting the pace and pricing of paddy procurement, which is vital for farmers.
