Question : PROCUREMENT OF PADDY BY CENTRAL AGENCIES

(a) the quantum of paddy procured by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) during the last three years, State-wise alongwith the rate thereof;

(b) whether the Government of Chhattisgarh has urged the Union Government to procure paddy in States through the FCI;

(c) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto;

(d) whether the Union Government has formulated any special assistance scheme to compensate the losses caused by procurement of paddy at support price by the States; and

(e) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF THE STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)

(a): A statement showing the quantum of paddy procured by Food Corporation of India (FCI) state-wise during the last three years is enclosed at Annexure. The paddy conforming to FAQ specifications is procured by FCI at Minimum Support Price (MSP) only.

(b) & (c): Yes, madam. Since Government of Chhattisgarh is procuring rice for Central Pool under Decentralised Procurement Scheme, it is the responsibility of the State Government to procure paddy. The Government of Chhattisgarh has been informed accordingly.

(d)& (e): No, madam.