Bareilly: District Magistrate Avinash Singh carried out a surprise inspection of a wheat procurement centre at the Navin Mandi Sthal in Delapeer to review on-ground arrangements and ensure smooth operations for farmers.
During the visit, the District Magistrate directed officials to provide adequate facilities for farmers, including seating arrangements, jaggery and gram for refreshment, clean drinking water, and shaded areas, ensuring that farmers do not face inconvenience while selling their produce.
He also inspected the availability of essential equipment such as moisture measuring devices, tarpaulins, and gunny bags, instructing authorities to maintain sufficient stock at all times. Emphasising fairness in procurement, he clearly stated that farmers’ wheat should not be unnecessarily rejected on the basis of moisture content. He warned of strict action against any negligence or involvement of middlemen in the process.
Highlighting the procurement norms, the District Magistrate noted that the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for wheat has been fixed at ₹2,585 per quintal, with an additional ₹20 per quintal allocated for weighing and cleaning charges.
Interacting directly with farmers, he listened to their grievances and reviewed the status of timely payments to labourers and loaders. He also verified procurement-related documents, including “gata parchis,” to ensure transparency in operations.
The District Magistrate further stressed that mobile procurement centres should primarily benefit elderly, ill, and physically challenged farmers. Officials informed that a total of 120 procurement centres are currently operational across the district.
Additional District Magistrate (Finance & Revenue) Santosh Kumar Singh, the Mandi Secretary, and other concerned officials were present during the inspection.
