Hyderabad: Distribution of Superfine Rice Delayed
The ambitious plan to supply superfine rice, known as “Sanna Biyyam,” through the Public Distribution System (PDS) in Telangana is facing delays. Initially, the State government aimed to launch the scheme during Sankranti, but officials have now pushed the timeline to Ugadi. However, it appears unlikely that the scheme will materialize even within the first quarter of the new year.
The government had encouraged farmers to sell their paddy with a bonus of ₹500 per quintal during the Kharif season and planned to begin distributing the superfine rice by Sankranti. Despite these efforts, officials have indicated a delay of two to three months. The procurement of the Kharif crop is expected to conclude by the end of this month. Civil Supplies officials are working to ensure that all superfine rice is procured and stored in state godowns, while coarse grains are sent to the Food Corporation of India (FCI).
“Superfine rice requires at least three months of ageing, with six months being ideal. This makes it difficult to begin the distribution immediately. We will likely start the process after Ugadi,” a senior official explained.
The bonus announcement has led to a 60% increase in the procurement of superfine paddy this Kharif season. Currently, 2 lakh metric tons (LMT) of rice are distributed through PDS in Telangana. However, officials believe a significantly higher quantity will be needed to meet the demand for superfine rice.
According to sources, the State produced approximately 150 LMT of paddy this season. Out of this, the Civil Supplies department managed to procure around 36 LMT, including coarse grains. However, only 12 to 13 LMT of this is superfine rice, which is far below the required quantity.
Officials also highlighted challenges in procurement despite the bonus offer. Middlemen and dealers continue to divert farmers’ produce, with some of it even crossing state borders. Given these hurdles, it is unlikely that the scheme will be ready for rollout by Ugadi.
