MLA Accuses Government of Misrepresentation; Corn Purchases Allegedly Not Made Through PACS

PATNA: The Bihar Assembly witnessed a heated exchange on Thursday as AIMIM MLA Murshid Alam accused the state government of misrepresentation regarding the purchase of maize (corn). Alam claimed that corn procurement was being carried out exclusively through trade associations, bypassing the PACS (Primary Agricultural Credit Societies).

Minister Leshi Singh Refutes Allegations

In response, Food and Consumer Protection Minister Leshi Singh denied the claims, asserting that maize procurement also takes place at the panchayat level. Assembly Speaker Prem Kumar directed the minister to respond to the MLA’s question.

Minister Singh highlighted that maize procurement occurs through both trade associations and PACS. She further explained that the minimum purchase price for maize was set at ₹2,090 per quintal, but the prevailing market rates were higher, which led to procurement falling short of targets.

MLA Cites Departmental Letters

Unconvinced by the minister’s reply, MLA Alam cited two departmental letters, claiming that even sitting legislators were unaware of the maize purchase process. He argued that without proper publicity and outreach, maize producers cannot secure fair prices, leaving many farmers in the state distressed.

Speaker Calls for Departmental Review

Assembly Speaker Dr. Prem Kumar intervened, urging Minister Singh to re-examine the matter within the department. He then invited MLA Alam to raise any supplementary questions.

Procurement Plans for 2025-26

MLA Alam further inquired if maize procurement would take place in the 2025-26 financial year. Minister Singh replied that, due to limited ethanol production demand this year, maize procurement has not yet been initiated. She added that once NCCF (National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation) communicates its maize demand, farmers will be informed about the procurement process.