Hyderabad – Civil Supplies Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy responded strongly on Tuesday to accusations made by BRS leader T Harish Rao about paddy procurement in Telangana.
Using official data, Uttam Kumar challenged Harish Rao’s claims, calling them false. He posted a message on social media platform X, urging Rao to stop spreading “daily lies.” Along with the message, he shared a chart comparing paddy procurement figures from recent years.
According to the data, the Telangana government bought 43.10 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of paddy during the ongoing Rabi 2024–25 season, as of May 12. In comparison, the state procured 29.88 LMT during the same period last year and just 19.62 LMT two years ago.
This means procurement rose by nearly 44% over last year and more than 120% compared to two years ago. The minister said this sharp increase proves the government’s active efforts to support farmers.
Uttam Kumar noted that the Congress government opened more procurement centers and improved operations to help farmers sell their crops easily. He also mentioned that farmers are receiving the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and a ₹500 bonus per quintal for fine-quality paddy. Payments are being made on time, bringing much-needed relief to paddy growers.
He also pointed to record-breaking paddy production in Telangana. In the Vanakalam season, the state grew 153.5 LMT of paddy on 66.7 lakh acres. The ongoing Yasangi crop covers 55 lakh acres, with an expected yield of 127 LMT. Together, that’s a total of 280 LMT of paddy in one agricultural year.
Uttam Kumar called this a historic milestone not just for Telangana but for all of India. He emphasized that this achievement came despite major setbacks like the failure of the Kaleshwaram Project.
The minister’s statements aim to counter opposition criticism and highlight the state government’s strong support for farmers and agriculture.
