Revanth Reddy Warns Officials Over Delay in Paddy Procurement

• Revanth Reddy orders faster paddy procurement in Telangana
• Collectors warned over negligence in grain procurement process
• Temporary storage arrangements planned to protect farmers crops

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has issued a strong warning to officials over delays in paddy and maize procurement across the state. During a high level video conference with district collectors, the Chief Minister made it clear that the government would not tolerate negligence in handling procurement operations affecting farmers.

Reviewing the ongoing grain collection process, Revanth Reddy instructed officials to complete procurement on a war footing and ensure that farmers do not face inconvenience at purchase centres. He stressed that collectors must directly monitor field level operations and respond immediately wherever problems arise.

The Chief Minister also warned that action could be taken even against district collectors if they fail to handle the situation effectively. According to him, every officer involved in the procurement chain must act responsibly and maintain accountability throughout the process.

One of the major concerns discussed during the meeting was the shortage of storage space in certain regions. Revanth Reddy advised collectors to make temporary arrangements wherever godown facilities are inadequate. He suggested using function halls, Rythu Bazaars and other available locations to safely store grain before shifting it to warehouses.

The government also focused on transportation challenges. The Chief Minister directed authorities not to spare contractors who fail to provide enough vehicles for transporting paddy as per agreements. He even suggested filing criminal cases against contractors creating unnecessary delays in lifting grain from procurement centres.

Officials were asked to ensure there is no shortage of gunny bags, labour workers and transport vehicles during the peak procurement season. The transport department was also instructed to coordinate closely with district administrations to avoid disruptions.

Special attention was given to protecting crops from unseasonal rains. Revanth Reddy ordered officials to keep tarpaulin sheets readily available so that harvested grain does not get damaged at procurement yards. Districts producing large quantities of maize were told to stay alert and seek police support if required for smooth procurement operations.

The Chief Minister further directed that receipts must be issued immediately after grain is loaded onto transport vehicles. He said this step would help prevent irregularities and disputes involving deductions during procurement.

Meanwhile, Civil Supplies Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy assured collectors that the government was ready to extend full support to resolve any procurement related issues. Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao raised concerns that some farmers from neighbouring states were bringing grain to Telangana procurement centres, creating pressure in certain districts.

In another important development, Telangana succeeded in getting additional allocation for boiled rice procurement from the Centre after continuous efforts by the state government. The Centre reportedly sanctioned an extra 14.78 lakh tonnes quota for the 2025 to 2026 season following repeated requests and meetings held by the Telangana leadership with Union ministers and Food Corporation officials.