Patna, April 8 (BiharTimes): Bihar has achieved a major milestone in agricultural procurement, with the state purchasing 36.79 lakh metric tonnes (MT) of paddy against a target of 36.85 lakh MT during the 2025–26 Kharif season, Food and Consumer Protection Minister Leshi Singh announced on Wednesday.
Addressing reporters in Patna, the minister described the achievement as a strong indicator of Bihar’s improving procurement efficiency and farmer outreach. The state is now on the verge of fully meeting its Kharif paddy target.
While rice procurement currently stands at 12 lakh MT, below the seasonal target of 25 lakh MT, Singh expressed confidence that the shortfall will be bridged soon. “The rice procurement target is expected to be achieved by June 15,” she said.
Looking ahead, Bihar has already initiated procurement for the 2026–27 Rabi marketing season, with wheat procurement beginning across all districts from April 1. The Centre has set a target of 18,000 MT for the state. So far, 2,617 MT of wheat has been procured from 591 farmers, reflecting a steady start to the season.
The minister also highlighted farmer-friendly pricing, noting that the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for wheat has been increased by ₹160 over the past year to ₹2,585 per quintal, boosting farmer confidence and participation.
In pulses procurement, the Centre has fixed a target of 32,000 MT for lentils, with procurement scheduled between April 10 and May 31 at an MSP of ₹7,000 per quintal.
Beyond procurement, Bihar continues to strengthen its food security framework. Under the National Food Security Act, the state is providing free high-quality food grains to 8.55 crore beneficiaries every month, supported by a central allocation of 4.6 lakh MT.
The government also reassured citizens about stable LPG supply across the state. Authorities have intensified enforcement against black marketing and hoarding, leading to the seizure of 1,662 gas cylinders and registration of 114 FIRs. A Crisis Management Group, chaired by the Chief Secretary, is actively monitoring distribution.
Additionally, the expansion of clean energy access continues, with PNG connections operational in 99,346 households, and over 55,000 more homes ready for connection.
Officials from Indian Oil Corporation Limited confirmed that despite global supply disruptions, Bihar’s fuel supply chain remains robust. Adequate availability of petrol, diesel, and LPG is being maintained, ensuring uninterrupted access for consumers and priority sectors.
Agriculture officials also confirmed ample fertiliser availability across districts, ensuring smooth continuation of farming activities.
The developments underline Bihar’s steady progress in strengthening agricultural procurement systems, ensuring food security, and maintaining essential supply chains—key pillars of the state’s rural and economic resilience.
