Madikeri: Farmers in Kushalnagar and Somwarpet taluks stayed away from the govt paddy procurement centre set up at the Kushalnagar APMC yard, upset with the govt’s fixed price and the procedures to sell their produce.The centre, opened about two months ago, reportedly did not receive even a single farmer registration or paddy consignment. Though paddy is cultivated across thousands of acres in the Harangi command area, farmers are choosing to sell directly to traders coming from neighbouring districts and other states.Farmers said the low govt support price is one of the reasons. The govt-fixed rate is Rs 2,386 per quintal, while private traders are offering around Rs 2,400 to Rs 2,500 per quintal and often purchase directly at the farm, reducing the transport and handling burden for farmers.Farmers must register online and complete formalities to sell at the procurement centre. After which payment will be credited to the bank account. Many farmers are reluctant or unable to complete online registration due to limited understanding, further reducing participation. The payment process might take two to three months, which discourages farmers who need immediate cash. Traders, in contrast, pay quickly in the field, they explained.The govt procurement requires paddy to be properly dried, firm, and free from dust and waste. Traders are described as being more flexible on these conditions, making it easier for farmers to sell without extra drying, cleaning, or rejection risk.
