Ensure Minimum Support Price for Cotton Farmers: Telangana Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao

Telangana Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao has instructed officials to take all necessary measures to ensure that cotton farmers in the state receive the Minimum Support Price (MSP). The minister chaired a high-level review meeting with senior officials at the Secretariat to discuss cotton yield estimates and procurement arrangements.

Officials informed the minister that cotton was cultivated in 48.20 lakh acres across the state this season, with an expected yield of around 29.43 lakh metric tonnes. To protect farmers from market price fluctuations, procurement will be carried out through the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI).

To facilitate smooth operations for farmers, the number of CCI procurement centers has been increased from 122 to 133. Additionally, 335 ginning mills across 30 districts have been identified as procurement centers. Minister Tummala directed officials to ensure basic infrastructure and proper transport facilities at all centers.

He also stressed the need for speedy payments to farmers without any delays. Officials were instructed to strictly monitor quality testing and smooth operations at the procurement centers so that every cotton grower gets the mandated support price.