KATHUA: MLA Billawar Satish Kumar Sharma, in presence of Director, Agriculture Production & Farmers Welfare Department Jammu Anil Gupta and ADC Vishavjeet Singh, today inaugurated the Paddy Procurement Mandi (Registration-cum-Facilitation Centre) here at Damara.
The initiative aims to facilitate smooth, transparent and hassle-free procurement of paddy from local farmers at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of ₹2,441 per quintal for Paddy (Common) and ₹2,461 per quintal for Paddy (Grade-A).
Speaking on the occasion, MLA Satish Kumar Sharma reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare of farmers through improved procurement facilities, enhanced transparency and timely disbursement of payments. He emphasized that such centres would play a significant role in strengthening the rural economy, reducing the role of middlemen and empowering local farming communities by providing farmers with convenient access to procurement facilities.
In his address, Director Agriculture Jammu informed that the Agriculture Department, in coordination with the Food Corporation of India (FCI) has made elaborate arrangements for efficient procurement operations and timely payments to farmers. He directed the field officers to extend full support to farmers throughout the procurement process and ensure that no farmer faces any inconvenience.
Among others present on the occasion were District Agriculture Officer, Kathua; SDAO; Subject Matter Specialists; officers from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) and several local farmers, officers and officials of the Agriculture Department.
