The National Cooperative Consumer Federation (NCCF) is fully prepared to begin procuring maize from farmers at the Minimum Support Price (MSP), with all necessary preparations nearing completion. The initiative will provide farmers with fair value for their produce.
In a significant development, around 3.5 lakh farmers have already registered on the e-Samyukti portal, a digital platform set up by NCCF. The organization is actively encouraging more farmers to pre-register on the portal to sell their maize at the MSP, streamlining the process for both the farmers and the cooperative.
In an exclusive interview with Indian Cooperative, NCCF Managing Director Anice Joseph highlighted the cooperative’s efforts to ensure farmers are supported throughout the procurement phase.
Joseph emphasized, “We are fully committed to ensuring that farmers receive fair prices for their maize. The e-Samyukti portal is a step towards simplifying the process, making it easier for farmers to sell their produce directly to us at the MSP”, she said.
She further underlined, “The NCCF’s initiative aligns for empowering farmers and provides a platform that ensures transparency and fair trade practices. With the groundwork already in place, the federation is poised to begin procuring maize, ensuring that farmers benefit from government-backed MSP rates”, she noted.
The NCCF’s move is expected to provide much-needed relief and assurance to farmers across the country. “We are also receiving support from various state governments, regardless of political affiliation, be it BJP, Congress, or AAP,” Joseph noted.
She added, “NCCF has already mapped major maize-growing regions in relation to the location of distiller plants, availability of transportation, and storage facilities. So far, 12 states have been mapped for maize procurement, with availability exceeding 63 lakh MT.
We have also signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with 53 distillers to ensure a smooth and efficient procurement process. The agreements will facilitate the distribution of maize to distilleries”, she underscored.
Joseph also highlighted the logistical challenges ahead, stating, “The primary challenge in this process is not only securing adequate storage facilities for maize procurement but also ensuring that these facilities are strategically located to prevent delays and inefficiencies. Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the quality of the maize, preventing spoilage, and managing the flow of goods in a timely manner.”