Thu Apr 09 13:10:00 UTC 2026: # Maize Farmers in Narasaraopeta Face Losses as Procurement Centers Remain Shut
The Story
Maize farmers in the Narasaraopeta region are facing significant financial losses due to the delayed opening of government procurement centers. Despite a good yield this Rabi season, farmers are forced to sell their produce to private traders at significantly lower prices than the government-announced Minimum Support Price (MSP). This discrepancy is causing substantial distress among the farming community, particularly after exceeding the normal cultivation target.
Key Points
- Farmer Padala Krishna Reddy from Rompicherla cultivated maize on 15 acres, yielding 40 quintals per acre.
- The government’s MSP for maize is ₹2400 per quintal.
- Private traders are buying maize at only ₹1800 per quintal, resulting in a loss of ₹600 per quintal for farmers.
- The actual maize cultivation in the district reached 13,43,475 acres, far exceeding the normal target of 41,520 acres.
- Agricultural officials estimate a yield of 47,021 metric tons.
- Markfed (Marketing Federation) officials have sent proposals to the government for setting up procurement centers but are awaiting approval.
Key Takeaways
- The delay in opening government procurement centers is directly impacting farmers’ income.
- Private traders are exploiting the situation by offering prices far below the MSP.
- The overproduction of maize has exacerbated the problem, creating a glut in the market.
- Prompt action from the government is needed to activate Markfed and begin procurement at the MSP to alleviate farmers’ financial burden.
- The establishment of procurement centers could potentially drive up prices in the open market.
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