Farmers allege RSK rejection of paddy, distress sales to private traders in Karakampadu

Concerns over paddy procurement were flagged at Karakampadu village after farmers complained that grain was not being purchased at Rythu Seva Kendras (RSKs) , forcing them to sell to private traders at lower prices.

The issue came to light when farmers approached State Minister Kolusu Parthasarathy during his visit to the village. It was alleged by farmers that procurement at RSKs had been declined on the grounds of colour change in paddy , following which private traders purchased the produce at around ₹1,200 per quintal , below the government procurement rate.

Following the complaints, the matter was verified on the spot . Officials at the RSKs were questioned on the reasons for non-procurement. Private traders’ vehicles transporting paddy were also checked as part of the verification.

Although traders stated that they were purchasing paddy at higher rates, farmers maintained that the actual payments received were lower. To assess the quality issue, a moisture-content test was conducted using a moisture meter. According to officials present, the test showed that while the outer layer of the grain had discoloration, the internal grain quality and moisture levels were within acceptable limits for procurement.

Based on these findings, senior district officials, including the District Collector and Civil Supplies officials , were contacted and were directed to take immediate corrective measures . Instructions were issued to ensure that eligible paddy is procured as per norms and that farmers are not forced to sell at distress prices.

Officials were also directed to ensure that private traders adhere to fair pricing practices and that complaints of under-payment are examined. Farmers were advised to provide payment records where available to support verification.

While allegations of collusion between officials and traders were raised by farmers, no formal inquiry report or disciplinary action has been announced so far . Authorities stated that further action would be taken if violations are established through evidence.

Following the intervention, farmers said they were assured that procurement issues would be resolved and that steps would be taken to prevent recurrence.

Officials reiterated that surface discolouration alone is not a valid ground for rejection of paddy and that procurement decisions must be based on prescribed quality and moisture norms.