Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Wednesday announced that the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government has set a new record in procuring paddy from farmers during its tenure, surpassing the amount purchased under the previous AIADMK regime.
Speaking at a government event in Dindigul, Stalin highlighted that during the past four and a half years of DMK rule, the state has procured 1.99 crore metric tonnes of paddy, marking a significant achievement in agricultural procurement efforts.
In comparison, during the AIADMK government’s ten-year rule, the state had purchased 1.79 crore metric tonnes of paddy.
The Chief Minister made the remarks while inaugurating and laying the foundation stone for various development schemes worth Rs. 1,595 crore. He distributed welfare benefits to thousands of beneficiaries and launched several public service vehicles at the event.
Stalin also reiterated the state government’s commitment to farmer welfare and agricultural support. He underscored the increase in the procurement network and operations, which has enabled Tamil Nadu to extend better market access to paddy growers — helping ensure fair pricing and reduced post-harvest uncertainties for the farming community.
Observers note that this rise in procurement comes amid sustained policy efforts such as expanding Direct Procurement Centres (DPCs) across the state, extending operating hours, and negotiating relaxed moisture norms with the Centre to accommodate monsoon-affected harvests. These strategies have contributed markedly to increased purchases compared with previous years.