The government’s procurement target of Boro paddy and rice in 10
southwestern districts in the current season is unlikely to be
achieved due to higher price of the food grains at the local markets
compared to the procurement rate.
The four-month long procurement drive is scheduled to end on September
30 though it is set to fall short of 43 percent of its target.
Sources said the procurement drive started in 10 districts of Khulna
division on May 2 with a target to purchase 18,280 metric tonnes of
Boro paddy and 77,836 metric tonnes of rice this year.
To achieve the target, Food Department signed an agreement with 1,930
out of 2,240 millers having licenses.
But, only 537 metric tonnes paddy and 44,405 metric tonnes rice was
procured as of Saturday last.
Talking to journalists, a number of farmers said paddy is selling at
Tk 17 to 20 on the local markets, which is higher than the official
procurement price.
Acknowledging the fact, Badal Kumar Biswas, an official at local Food
Department, said the official price rate of per kg paddy and rice was
fixed at Tk 18.50 and Tk 29 respectively, which is lower than the
market price.
“So, the farmers prefer selling paddy and rice at the local markets,
said Badal Kumar. –UNB, Khulna
