Jammu Records Highest Ever Paddy Procurement as MSP Payments Cross Rs 106 Crore | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Paddy procurement in the Jammu region has reached an all-time high during the ongoing Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2025–26, with procurement crossing 4.47 lakh quintals, surpassing all previous records and underlining increased farmer participation under the Minimum Support Price mechanism.

Official data show that procurement operations, which will continue until December 31, have already exceeded the earlier highest procurement of 4.05 lakh quintals recorded during KMS 2021–22. The current season has also crossed the official target of 3.50 lakh quintals, signalling a strong upward trend in both volume and farmer confidence.

During KMS 2025–26, a total of 6,130 farmers have benefitted so far, with Rs 106.48 crore disbursed directly into farmers’ bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer. This marks a sharp increase compared to the previous Kharif season of 2024–25, when 3.27 lakh quintals were procured, benefitting 4,897 farmers with MSP payments of Rs 75.67 crore.

Procurement authorities attributed the rise to improved mandi accessibility and timely payments. At present, 24 mandis are operational across the Jammu region to facilitate smooth procurement. MSP rates for the current season have been fixed at Rs 2,389 per quintal for Grade A paddy and Rs 2,369 per quintal for common paddy, offering assured returns to growers.

Farmer registration has also reached a historic high. Official figures indicate that 11,182 farmers have registered under the procurement system during the current season, reflecting greater awareness and trust in the MSP framework.

Director Agriculture, Jammu Agriculture Department, Jammu, Anil Gupta, said the record procurement reflects growing confidence among farmers in the MSP mechanism. He credited strengthened field-level outreach, improved mandi infrastructure and prompt DBT payments for ensuring wider participation. Gupta also acknowledged the role of field functionaries in generating awareness at village and panchayat levels regarding registration, procurement procedures and MSP benefits.