Why is TN BJP Demanding a White Paper on Paddy Procurement?
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Synopsis
In a pressing call for action, Tamil Nadu BJP spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad urges the state government to expedite the implementation of the Union's Fortified Rice Distribution Scheme and publish a detailed white paper on paddy procurement. His comments highlight significant delays and administrative failures that have impacted farmers and public health.
Key Takeaways
- Urgent action is needed in implementing the Fortified Rice Distribution Scheme.
- A white paper on paddy procurement is crucial for transparency.
- Delays in procurement are harming both farmers and public health.
- Misleading statements from officials need to be addressed.
- Corruption and inefficiencies at procurement centers must be resolved.
Chennai, Oct 23 (NationPress) Tamil Nadu BJP spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad called on the state administration to promptly execute the Union government's Fortified Rice Distribution Scheme and publish a white paper detailing its approach and activities regarding paddy procurement.
In his statement, Prasad accused Food Minister R. Sakkarapani of disseminating “filtered falsehoods” by asserting that the delay in Central approval for mixing fortified rice has led to an accumulation of paddy bags in warehouses.
“Before shifting blame, the Minister must clarify what fortified rice entails and why the Modi government has mandated its distribution to tackle nutritional deficiencies,” Prasad asserted.
According to him, the fortified rice initiative, enriched with iron, folic acid, and Vitamin B12, was established to combat anaemia and enhance public health, especially among the underprivileged.
The Centre, he noted, issued new guidelines on July 29 for the 2025-26 procurement season, yet the Tamil Nadu government only responded on October 7 with an order for 34,000 metric tonnes of fortified rice.
“This unjustifiable 75-day delay has adversely affected both farmers and the public,” he stated.
Prasad accused Minister Sakkarapani of misleading the public by claiming the Centre had not approved the fortified rice samples for quality assurance, even though contractors had only recently sent the samples to Delhi.
He pointed out that Agriculture Minister M.R.K. Panneerselvam contradicted Sakkarapani’s assertions by attributing the procurement delay to an “unprecedented” surge in paddy production.
“Whenever the DMK government's shortcomings are highlighted, Sakkarapani resorts to blaming the Centre instead of addressing the issues,” Prasad charged, adding that the government has failed to expand procurement centers, maintain warehouses properly, or establish temporary storage solutions.
He emphasized that the DMK’s administrative failures in both the agriculture and food sectors have caused distress among farmers, while corruption and kickbacks at procurement centers remain unresolved.
“Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin tweets about the achievements of the Dravidian model but remains silent on farmer suicides and anti-farmer policies,” he remarked.
Calling for an end to “political deflection”, Prasad urged the state to expedite quality approvals from Delhi, streamline paddy procurement, and fully implement the fortified rice scheme to achieve an anaemia-free Tamil Nadu.
Point of View
The ongoing issues surrounding paddy procurement and fortified rice distribution in Tamil Nadu highlight a critical intersection of agriculture, public health, and governance. The calls for action from local BJP leaders underscore the importance of accountability and the need for effective policies that directly impact the rural economy and health outcomes.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Fortified Rice Distribution Scheme?
The Fortified Rice Distribution Scheme is a government initiative aimed at providing fortified rice enriched with essential nutrients such as iron, folic acid, and Vitamin B12 to combat nutritional deficiencies.
Why is the white paper on paddy procurement significant?
The white paper would provide transparency regarding the state's actions and policies on paddy procurement, addressing concerns about delays and inefficiencies that impact farmers and the public.
What are the nutritional benefits of fortified rice?
Fortified rice is designed to improve public health by reducing anaemia and enhancing overall nutrition, particularly among vulnerable populations.
What delays are currently affecting paddy procurement in Tamil Nadu?
Delays in implementing the Fortified Rice Distribution Scheme and obtaining necessary approvals are leading to a backlog of paddy in storage facilities.
Who are the key political figures involved in this issue?
Key figures include Tamil Nadu BJP spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad, Food Minister R. Sakkarapani, and Agriculture Minister M.R.K. Panneerselvam.
