Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Tuesday directed district Collectors across the state to operate in 'mission mode' to complete grain procurement and maize purchasing operations without delay. The directive came during a video conference held from Hyderabad, where the Chief Minister reviewed the progress of the state's ongoing procurement drive and sought district-wise updates on ground-level challenges.

Key Directives to Collectors

Revanth Reddy made it unambiguously clear that negligence under any circumstances would not be tolerated, warning that the government would not hesitate to take action against Collectors found derelict in their duties. He instructed officials to personally visit procurement centres at the field level and ensure that farmers face no difficulties whatsoever during the process. He also ordered that there be no shortage of gunny bags or hamalis (loaders and labourers) at procurement centres, and that procured grain be transported to warehouses on a continuous, real-time basis.

Strict Action Against Errant Contractors

The Chief Minister emphasised that contractors failing to provide the stipulated number of lorries for grain transport — as required under their agreements — must face consequences without exception. He directed officials not to hesitate in initiating criminal proceedings against such contractors if necessary. He also instructed the Commissioner of the Transport Department to ensure adequate vehicles are made available for grain transportation across the state.

Warehouse Shortage and Temporary Solutions

Acknowledging that warehouse availability has emerged as a concern in several regions, Revanth Reddy advised Collectors to make temporary storage arrangements based on immediate requirements. He directed them to utilise Rythu Bazaars and function halls as interim storage and movement facilities, with plans to subsequently transfer grain to permanent warehouses as space becomes available. Collectors of districts with high maize production were specifically urged to remain vigilant and take all necessary measures to protect farmer interests.

Weather Preparedness and Farmer Protection

Noting the recurring threat of unseasonal rains, the Chief Minister ordered that adequate tarpaulins be made available to farmers to protect harvested grain at drying floors. He further suggested appointing a designated official at the Mandal level to relay weather advisories from the Meteorological Department directly to the farming community, establishing a dedicated system for real-time weather forecast dissemination. Collectors were also advised to seek police assistance wherever necessary to ensure uninterrupted procurement operations.

Senior Officials in Attendance

The video conference was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, Ministers Thummala Nageswara Rao, Uttam Kumar Reddy, Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, Seethakka, Jupally Krishna Rao, Adluri Laxman Kumar, and Vakiti Srihari, along with Chief Secretary Ramakrishna Rao, senior officials, and Collectors from various districts. Collectors were directed to submit regular reports to the Chief Secretary on grain procurement and maize purchase progress. All eyes will now be on whether the administration's zero-tolerance stance translates into measurable relief for farmers on the ground.