Bihar’s Agricultural Success: Farmers Paid Within 48 Hours, Wheat Procurement Next

In a significant boost to Bihar's agricultural sector, the state government has successfully procured 87% of its targeted 45 lakh metric tonnes of paddy for the financial year 2024-25. Through the Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), 39.23 lakh metric tonnes of paddy have been purchased, with farmers receiving payments within 48 hours of sale. This swift payment mechanism has been a game-changer for farmers, ensuring financial stability and encouraging participation in government procurement programs.

Wheat Procurement Set to Begin

Building on the success of paddy procurement, the Bihar government is now gearing up to meet its wheat procurement targets. Starting April 1, the state aims to purchase wheat at an increased minimum support price (MSP) of ₹2,425 per quintal, up from ₹2,275 last year. So far, 24,324 farmers have registered to sell their wheat, with the government assuring 100% procurement for all registered farmers.

Cooperative Minister Prem Kumar, addressing a press conference at the Samvad Kendra in Suchna Bhawan, emphasized the government's commitment to supporting farmers. "The entire procurement process is being streamlined through a digital portal, ensuring transparency and efficiency," he said.

Expanding Storage Infrastructure

To accommodate the growing procurement, the state has significantly enhanced its storage capacity. The construction of 7,056 warehouses has been completed, adding 15.67 lakh metric tonnes of storage space. Additionally, 325 warehouses are under construction in 2023-24 at a cost of ₹169 crore, while 259 more warehouses are planned for 2024-25, with an allocation of ₹147 crore. These new facilities will provide an additional 2.5 lakh metric tonnes of storage capacity, ensuring proper preservation of grains.

New Initiatives for Farmers

The Cooperative Department is launching several initiatives to further empower farmers. Primary vegetable cooperative societies will be established in 534 blocks across all 38 districts, linked to a union structure. Inspired by the success of Sudha dairy outlets, the government plans to open vegetable outlets in various blocks with the support of Wazfed and Comfed.

To address onion storage challenges, warehouses will be built in blocks with high onion production. Additionally, a Hub Mother warehouse will be constructed at the district level to facilitate the storage and export of vegetables to other states. "Our goal is to enable farmers to access larger markets and earn better returns," said Minister Prem Kumar.

Recognizing Excellence in PACS

Under the Mukhyamantri Adarsh PACS Promotion Scheme, the government will reward high-performing Primary Agricultural Credit Societies. At the state level, the top three PACS will receive prizes of ₹15 lakh, ₹10 lakh, and ₹7 lakh, respectively. District-level winners will be awarded ₹5 lakh, ₹3 lakh, and ₹2 lakh. The awards are set to be distributed in 2024-25, encouraging PACS to improve their services.

International Cooperative Year 2025

The United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Cooperative Year, and Bihar plans to mark the occasion with a series of programs. These include tree plantation drives, youth awareness campaigns, skill development workshops, women empowerment initiatives, and cooperative conferences. The Cooperative Department will lead these efforts, aiming to strengthen the cooperative movement across the state.

The press conference was attended by key officials, including Cooperative Department Secretary Dharmendra Singh, Manager of Cooperative Societies Inayat Khan, Additional Secretary Abhay Kumar Singh, Additional Registrar Prabhat Kumar, and Managing Director of Bihar State Cooperative Bank Manoj Kumar Singh.

With timely payments, increased MSP, and robust infrastructure, Bihar's farmers are poised for a brighter future, as the state government continues to prioritize their welfare and economic growth.