Hathras: Farmers Face Difficulties at Bajra Procurement Centers, RS MP Ramji Lal Expresses Anger

Hathras, Uttar Pradesh: Farmers in Hathras are facing significant difficulties at bajra (pearl millet) procurement centers, prompting strong criticism from Rajya Sabha MP and former Union Minister Ramji Lal Suman. He highlighted that despite having received tokens, farmers have been waiting for days to sell their bajra, while intermediaries and traders are being prioritized.

MSP Set at ₹2,775, Yet Farmers Suffer
The Uttar Pradesh government had fixed the minimum support price (MSP) for bajra at ₹2,775 per quintal to strengthen farmers financially. Procurement centers established by the Mandi Committee are meant to purchase farmers’ crops. On Thursday, MP Ramji Lal Suman visited the procurement centers to assess the situation.

Farmers Forced to Wait, Center Heads Absent
Upon entering the mandi, Suman was met with apprehensive staff and officials. Conversations with farmers revealed that many had been waiting outside the centers for several days. Although registered and issued tokens, their bajra was not being purchased. Investigations revealed that the center heads were absent, and Mandi Committee staff had to communicate with them over the phone.

MP Criticizes Center Officials, Orders Immediate Action
Suman strongly criticized the center heads, stating that around two dozen tractor-trailers were waiting at the procurement center. He pointed out that bajra from nearby Bharatpur was being purchased, while local farmers could not sell their produce. When center officials failed to provide satisfactory explanations, Suman contacted higher authorities and instructed them to immediately ensure that farmers holding tokens receive priority.

Government MSP Not Benefiting Farmers
The former Union Minister emphasized that while the government has announced MSP, farmers continue to be exploited at procurement centers. Traders’ crops are purchased first, leaving genuine farmers waiting for days. Suman demanded urgent corrective measures to ensure that farmers receive the MSP benefits they are entitled to.