(a) whether the FCI procured rice as levy in some districts of Maharashtra under a special scheme instead of procuring paddy at M.S.P. as is done in other States;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor;
(c) whether the Government has received complaints of large scale corruption in purchase of rice during the last two years and the current year; and
(d) if so, the action taken/proposed to be taken in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (DR. AKHILESH PRASAD SINGH)
(a) & (b): In Maharashtra, FCI is entrusted with the procurement of levy rice while the procurement of paddy is done by the State Government through the State Agencies.
(c) & (d): No, Sir. Occasional complaints as and when received, are investigated and disciplinary action against the delinquent officials is taken.