In Baloda Bazar, Chhattisgarh, a staggering 215,714 metric tons of coarse rice, 5,542 metric tons of slender rice, and 650,907 metric tons of paddy were procured. Across Chhattisgarh, at every level of the rice pyramid, signs of wastage are evident. Despite the toil of farmers and the procurement of rice starting from November 1, the lifting of rice has not occurred within the stipulated 72 hours. Consequently, rice is now clogging procurement centers.
The recent rainfall in Baloda Bazar has exacerbated the situation. Not only has the rice been soaked by the rain, but it's also deteriorating. The rice-filled storage bins are now rotten, highlighting the mismanagement at various levels and the lack of attention from responsible officials.
Moreover, the negligence extends to the milling process, as rice milling has not commenced due to the piling up of rice in the procurement centers. Consequently, farmers are experiencing anxiety over the drying of rice due to inadequate maintenance by committee managers and the lack of attention from district authorities.
The politics of the state seems to have shifted attention away from rice, which used to be the focal point from village alleys to legislative assemblies. The procurement process commenced on November 1, coinciding with the announcement of purchasing 21 quintals of rice per acre at ₹3100 per quintal. However, despite the change in government, procurement continued until February 4.
As a result, a surplus of rice has been procured this time, with committees acquiring rice well beyond the set targets. Yet, due to the delay in lifting rice, committees now face a backlog. Despite the hard-earned toil of farmers, the rice purchased with taxpayers' money remains exposed to the elements.
Collector K.L. Chauhan has assured that discussions will be held with the state government to expedite the lifting of rice. However, questions loom over the administration and government's efficiency as rice continues to soak and spoil, representing a colossal loss for both farmers and the state.