DW BUREAU / Deoria

The Deoria district administration has adopted a strict stance to ensure transparency and efficiency in the ongoing paddy procurement process.

District Magistrate Divya Mittal, during a review meeting at the Collectorate auditorium on Friday, emphasized that no farmer should face difficulties at procurement centres. She directed that FIRs will be lodged against officials responsible for irregularities or causing unnecessary delays for farmers.

Highlighting the district's progress, the DM informed that 6817 metric tonnes of paddy have already been procured this year, compared to 2978 metric tonnes in the same period last year, marking a 2.5x increase. Procurement is being conducted at 114 centers, and efforts are underway to further accelerate the process.

Key Directives from the DM:

? Priority to Small Farmers: Small farmers must be given precedence in procurement.

? Khatauni Verification: To avoid delays, verification should be completed within three days. Any lapse will hold the concerned SDM accountable.

? Awareness on Registration: Registration is mandatory for selling paddy. Farmers can register via www.fcs.up.gov.in or the UP Kisan Mitra App, available on Google Play Store.

The DM stressed that every farmer's paddy will be purchased and payments will be made promptly. "The administration is committed to ensuring fair prices and hassle-free procurement for all farmers," she said.Helpline Numbers for Assistance

Farmers facing issues in paddy procurement can contact the district helpline 9415387261 from 10 AM to 5 PM. Additionally, the state toll-free number 18001800150 is also available for resolving grievances.

Focus on Transparency and Monitoring The DM directed officials to monitor procurement centers regularly and resolve farmer grievances immediately. ADM Finance Arun Kumar Rai, DFMO Sulabh Anand, and other officials were present at the meeting.

The district administration has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a smooth, transparent, and farmer-friendly procurement process.

(editor@dailyworld.in)