Kailali 14 Dec- Paddy farmers in kailali are struggling to sell their harvest at fair prices as government procurement has slowed and private traders offer rates well below the minimum support price. Although the government announced a minimum support price for coarse paddy, many farmers say they have not benifited.
The state-owned Food Management and Trading Company Limited (FMTCL) stopped purchasing paddy after meeting its quota, forcing farmers to turn to local traders. In many cases, paddy is being sold at around Rs 23 per kilogram, far below the government-fixed price of about Rs 34.63 per kilogram. Farmers say they are under pressure to sell at low prices to meet immidiate expenses. Many still have paddy stored at home and fear losses from pests and spoilage if they wait longer for better rates. Local representatives report that around 200 farming families in some areas still have unsold paddy.
Attempts to sell collectively to the Food Company have largely failed, leaving farmers dependent on traders who dictate prices. Agriculture experts and provincial officials admit there are procurement and logistical challenges. While the Food Company increased its purchase volume this year, farmers say limited quotas and weak market support continue to affects their income and livelihood.