Agriculture Department Begins Study to Set Support Price for Chaitra Paddy

The Department of Agriculture, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, has started a study to determine the support price for Chaitra paddy. The department has initiated on-site studies in 25 different districts to ensure fair pricing for farmers.

During the study, the department stated that the minimum support price will be determined based on production costs by analyzing the expenses incurred in paddy production, including seeds, fertilizer, labor, inflation, and market prices. Prakash Sanjel, Director General of the Department, informed that after the department's team conducts the on-site study, the determined scientific price will be recommended to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development.

He expressed confidence that the on-site study process will help ensure the correct price for paddy produced by farmers. Director General Sanjel of the Department mentioned that the ministry will propose a price per quintal incorporating production costs, transportation expenses, market prices, and other relevant bases.

"That proposal will be presented to the Council of Ministers. After the decision is made by the Council of Ministers, it will be made public. Based on that, the moisture standard for the paddy will also be evaluated," said Prakash Sanjel, Director General of the Department.

He stated that the set price will be applicable if the paddy has up to 18 percent moisture, and if the moisture exceeds 18 percent, the rule of reducing weight will be applied. According to him, after the entire process is complete, the Council of Ministers will set the price. Director General Sanjel of the Department informed that the price set in this manner will be officially published.

It was stated that the paddy will be purchased through the Food Management and Trading Company Limited at the price set by the government. The government had set a support price of NPR 2,800 per quintal last year.