The district administration here is all set to begin procurement of paddy for the current Rabi season fromMay 9. And, for the first time, it will introduce biometric system in the market yards to prevent the role of brokers, recycling and black marketing of paddy.
Biometric system apart, the photograph of each vehicle coming with paddy for sale in the market yards will be taken and sent to the appropriate authorities, District Civil Supply Officer (CSO) Pitambar Acharya informed. In the preparatory meeting held here chaired by district Collector Balwant Singh, it was decided to procure 8.82 lakh quintals of paddy for the current season. “Procurement of paddy needs to be more systematic, transparent and above criticism,” emphasised Singh. He also asked the officials to ensure that the farmers sell paddy hassle-free.
He also asked the Civil Supply Department and the market yard officials to provide necessary facilities to the farmers keeping in view the weather condition. Heat apart, market yards need to take measures to protect paddy from rains as monsoon is expected any moment after first week of June. The yards will function till end of June, he said.
All the officials present came forward with their opinion for smooth functioning of the yards during the current season.