THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Minister GR Anil informed that the price of paddy procured this season will be distributed from November 13 through SBI, Canara and Federal Banks. The money will be given to farmers under PRS loan. The amount, interest and penalty, if any, shall be paid in full by Supplyco. The minister assured that the farmers will not be in debt.

The minister also disclosed that Supplyco is unable to pay the amount of paddy procured through means other than PRS loan. 200 crore has been sanctioned as a state incentive bonus. More than Rs 170 crore can be availed as PRS loans from banks. Proceedings are in progress for the amount to be received from the central government.

11 mills are procuring paddy. The contract was signed with the mill owners at an out-turn ratio of 64.5% as in the previous years, but due to the High Court verdict, the centre fixed 68% was applied here as well.

Procured this season: 17680.81 tonnes

Price paid as loan: 49.85 Crores

Procurement in Districts

(Weight in Tons)

Alappuzha............ 8808.735

Kottayam.............1466.5

Palakkad ..........6539.4

Dues must be received within 10th

About 5000 farmers have arrears of Rs.30 crores. They should receive the amount as PRS loan from the banks allotted to them by November 10. The Minister also said that Supplyco has been instructed to take necessary action in cases of illegality related to the account (minor account, NRI account, death of farmer).