India is set to initiate wheat procurement between March 1 and 15, with expectations of acquiring 114 lakh metric tons (LMT) during the current season. While the government remains optimistic about resolving issues with protesting farmers before the procurement season, Food Secretary Sanjeev Chopra expressed willingness for further talks, suggesting a possible lack of clear communication of plans to the protesters.
With the early arrival of the wheat crop and no premature warm weather forecast, the government anticipates a bumper rabi harvest. States like Uttar Pradesh aim to initiate early wheat procurement, organising farmer awareness camps to enhance procurement and provide information on the offered Minimum Support Price (MSP).
The Secretary clarified that the extension of duty on parboiled rice wasn't due to a shortfall but in response to reports of hoarding by unscrupulous elements, expecting high export prices after the export ban lapsed.
Despite stating that there is no proposal to review the limit for diverting sugar syrup for ethanol production, the Secretary mentioned the government's promotion of maize for ethanol.
Agreements between distilleries and National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) are being finalised, with an Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) circulated on February 13 to create an ecosystem for increased maize cultivation, crop diversification, and farmer welfare by ensuring MSP.
The current season's maize rate is fixed at ₹22.91/kg, remaining constant until the unchanged MSP of ₹2090/quintal. Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) will oversee maize procurement by distilleries from NAFED/National Cooperative Consumers' Federation (NCCF), with one such contract already concluded in Madhya Pradesh for 100 MT.
(Edited by : Anand Singha)
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