Suryaa Telangana Desk: Farmers in the Miryalaguda area are facing significant difficulties in selling their paddy at local rice mills. Farmers report having to wait for days at the mills, exposed to sun and rain, due to delays in the procurement process. There are allegations that rice millers have formed a syndicate to intentionally lower prices, causing financial distress to farmers who are already suffering losses due to recent unseasonal rains.
At the Samba Siva Rice Mill in Srinivas Nagar, Miryalaguda mandal, farmers organized a protest after the management reduced paddy prices and delayed purchases. Farmers expressed dissatisfaction over reports that mills are importing paddy from other states while delaying the procurement of local produce.
The protest caused a traffic disruption on the Kodad-Jadcherla National Highway, with vehicles backed up for approximately two kilometers. Following discussions between police, farmers, and the mill management, the mill agreed to pay 3,800 rupees per quintal, leading the farmers to end their protest.
Farmers are highlighting the cumulative burden of transportation costs, drying requirements, and unfavorable weather conditions, compounded by the difficulties faced at the mills. Concerns have been raised regarding a lack of official oversight, with farmers questioning if similar conditions persist at other mills. They are calling for district authorities to investigate the alleged syndicate and ensure transparent procurement processes at all rice mills.
