(a) whether the private traders are allowed to procure wheat directly from the farmers;
(b) if so, the quantum of wheat procured directly from the farmers by private traders and other private organizations during the last one year and the current year;
(c) whether the said procurement was made at the rates fixed by the Government; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (SHRI RAM VILAS PASWAN)
(a): Yes, Madam.
(b): As per information regarding total market arrivals and purchase by Government Agencies. and private traders available with FCI, the quantum of wheat procured directly by private traders and other private institutions from the farmers, during last one year and current year is at Annex.
(c): Private traders are free to purchase wheat from the farmers at market price, which could be at par or at variance with the Minimum Support Price fixed by the Government.
(d): Question does not arise.