Challenges in paddy procurement and storage for farmers in Tamil Nadu's Cauvery delta
Paddy farmers in Tamil Nadu's Cauvery delta are facing severe procurement issues due to high moisture content caused by unseasonal rains. The state government has requested the Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs to relax the permissible moisture content limit from 17% to 22%. Under the decentralized procurement scheme, the state government procures paddy on behalf of the Centre, which pays the Minimum Support Price (MSP). The lack of adequate Direct Purchase Centres (DPCs) and storage infrastructure has left many farmers vulnerable to private traders and crop damage.
Key Points
- Unseasonal rains have increased the moisture content of Kuruvai paddy, making it difficult to meet procurement standards.
- The Tamil Nadu Civil Supplies Corporation (TNCSC) is the primary agency for paddy procurement in the state.
- Decentralized procurement allows states to manage the logistics of grain collection while the Centre monitors quality.
- There is an urgent need for modern rice mills and more DPCs to handle bumper harvests and prevent grain loss.
Exam Facts
- Permissible moisture content limit: 17% (relaxation requested to 22%).
- TNCSC: Tamil Nadu Civil Supplies Corporation.
- MSP: Minimum Support Price.
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