A Central team visited Thanjavur to inspect complaints about high moisture content in paddy procured from farmers.Due to the delayed onset of the northeast monsoon this year, heavy rains have been lashing the delta districts over the past week. Farmers face challenges in drying harvested paddy as continuous rains, mist, and cloudy weather persist, leading to high moisture levels in the grains.
To address farmers’ concerns, the Tamil Nadu government had requested the Centre to relax the permissible moisture level for paddy procurement from 17% to 22%. Acting on the request, a Central team was formed to assess the situation.
The team, comprising officials from the Food Corporation of India’s Storage and Research Division, including Assistant Directors Naveen and Preethi, and technical officers Rahul and Abhishek Pandey, is inspecting paddy crops across districts such as Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Cuddalore, Pudukottai, Ariyalur, and Tiruchirappalli.
During their visit to the government paddy procurement center at Kakkarai village near Orathanadu in Thanjavur district, the officials collected paddy samples and interacted with farmers. The inspection was accompanied by Tamil Nadu Civil Supplies Corporation Managing Director Annadurai, District Collector Priyanka Pankajam, Senior Quality Manager Senthil, Regional Manager (in-charge) Karthigai Swami, and Agriculture Department Joint Director Vidya.
This inspection aims to ensure a fair resolution for farmers while addressing procurement issues caused by adverse weather conditions.