Telangana Cotton Farmers Urge Investigation into Procurement Issues
Cotton farmers in Telangana are facing significant challenges due to ongoing procurement issues, leading to widespread dissatisfaction and urgent calls for a comprehensive investigation. Alleged irregularities and technical glitches have further complicated the process, prompting concerns about transparency and fair pricing.
Procurement Delays and Price Discrepancies
Farmers have reported delays in procurement caused by glitches in the Aadhaar-linked server used by the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI). These delays have forced many to sell their produce to private traders at prices significantly lower than the Minimum Support Price (MSP). Reports indicate that cotton has been sold at approximately ?6,500 per quintal—?1,000 lower than the expected MSP—leading to financial strain among cultivators.
The delays have raised questions about the integrity of the procurement process. Many farmers believe that technical issues have inadvertently or deliberately created an unfair advantage for private traders, reducing their ability to secure fair compensation for their produce.
Historical Procurement Challenges in the Cotton Sector
This is not the first time procurement-related issues have impacted Telangana’s cotton farmers. Past instances have highlighted systemic vulnerabilities, including fraudulent activities in the cotton MSP system. Such challenges emphasize the need for a robust and transparent procurement framework that prioritizes farmers' interests.
Current Developments and Industry Response
Following widespread concerns, the CCI has resumed procurement operations, easing certain norms to facilitate smoother transactions. This move has provided temporary relief, encouraging farmers to bring their stocks to key market yards in cotton-producing regions such as Nizamabad, Warangal, and Khammam.
Despite this, concerns regarding procurement transparency and efficiency remain. The agricultural sector requires long-term structural improvements to prevent future disruptions and ensure a fair, efficient system that benefits farmers and industry stakeholders alike.
The Way Forward
With proper intervention, Telangana’s cotton industry can overcome these challenges and create a more sustainable and farmer-friendly procurement ecosystem. The priority should be building trust and ensuring that farmers receive fair value for their hard work.
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