Government procurement of paddy during the current kharif season in Muzaffarpur has not progressed as expected, with farmers increasingly preferring local markets over Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), leaving the district well behind its minimum support price procurement targets.
Farmers reported delays, extensive paperwork, and late payments when selling paddy through PACS. They cited time-consuming processes such as online registration, slot booking, and quality checks, while local markets allow immediate sale with cash or same-day payments.
Despite receiving prices below the minimum support price in local markets, farmers said timely payment and the absence of procedural hurdles make these outlets more practical. Small and marginal farmers said they require immediate funds after harvest to repay loans, pay labour wages, and prepare for the next crop, making it difficult to wait for prolonged PACS procedures.
Several PACS in the district were not operational on time. Issues included inadequate storage facilities, weak weighing and quality inspection systems, staff shortages, and technical problems, which reduced farmer confidence and pushed them towards alternative market options.
According to official data, the district has failed to meet its paddy procurement targets so far, with progress slower than in other districts. Experts said achieving the target will become more difficult if procurement processes are not simplified and payment timelines are not ensured.
The agriculture and cooperation department said steps are being taken to activate PACS, speed up payments, and address farmer grievances. Officials said instructions have been issued to simplify registration procedures and expedite the settlement of pending payments so that farmers regain confidence in selling paddy through PACS.
Farmers have demanded guaranteed immediate payment for paddy procurement, simplified registration and slot booking with offline options, transparent and uniform quality checks, and adequate storage and weighing facilities at all PACS.
