Assam has recorded strong progress in paddy procurement under Kharif Marketing Season 2025–26, benefiting thousands of farmers across the state.

Key Highlights

• Total procurement so far: 4.27 lakh metric tonnes
• Procurement target for first crop: 7.53 lakh metric tonnes
• Procurement period:
  • December 2025 to August 2026
• Registered farmers:
  • Applications received: 61,594
  • Registered farmers: 60,290

Agencies Involved

Paddy procurement is being carried out by:

• Food Corporation of India
• National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India
• Assam Food & Civil Supplies Corporation Limited
• Assam State Agricultural Marketing Board
• Procurement is taking place at 183 Paddy Procurement Centres across Assam.

Minimum Support Price (MSP)

• Common Paddy: ₹2,369 per quintal
• Grade A Paddy: ₹2,389 per quintal

Minimum Support Price is the assured price at which the government purchases crops from farmers to protect them from distress sales.

Related Government Framework

• Operates under India’s Minimum Support Price system
• Linked to food security initiatives under:
  • Food Corporation of India
  • National food grain procurement mechanism

Important Concepts Explained

• Kharif Marketing Season: Procurement cycle for monsoon crops
• Minimum Support Price: Government-guaranteed purchase price
• Procurement Centre: Official point where crops are purchased
• Buffer Stock: Food grain reserve maintained for emergencies
• Food Security: Ensuring access to sufficient food

Exam Hook

Prelims Question:
Which of the following agencies is primarily responsible for food grain procurement and buffer stock management in India?
(a) NITI Aayog
(b) Food Corporation of India
(c) National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development
(d) Competition Commission of India

One-line Wrap

Efficient paddy procurement strengthens farmer income, food security and agricultural stability in Assam.

Source