Mon Nov 11 15:04:27 UTC 2024: ## Kerala Government Intensifies Paddy Procurement Amidst Farmer Protests

**Thiruvananthapuram, November 11, 2024:** The Kerala government has announced its intention to accelerate paddy procurement in the current season, following protests by farmers demanding immediate action to address the dire situation facing the agricultural sector.

A tractor rally organised by the Karshaka Congress, highlighting the plight of paddy farmers in the state, passed through Yakkara in Palakkad on Monday. Activists called for the swift implementation of an agricultural package to tackle the challenges faced by farmers.

Food and Civil Supplies Minister G.R. Anil confirmed that the government is working to expedite the procurement process. He stated that compensation to farmers will be disbursed soon and that efforts are underway to offer Paddy Receipt Sheet (PRS) loans to farmers as soon as the by-elections conclude.

Minister Anil further reported that 15,052.38 metric tonnes (MT) of paddy have been procured from 6,010 farmers in Palakkad alone. To expedite the process, additional personnel have been deployed for procurement operations. He assured that all pending payments for paddy procurement from the previous season have been fully disbursed.

However, the Minister criticized the opposition for politicising the delay in fund disbursal and accused the Central government of apathy towards the welfare of farmers. He said the state awaits the sanction of ₹1,411.22 crore from the Centre towards paddy procurement dues.

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