*Hyderabad, September 23, 2024* – In a major boost for farmers, Telangana Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy announced that the state government will provide a ₹500 bonus per quintal of grain to farmers. Calling it a “revolutionary decision,” Minister Reddy stated that this initiative aims to support farmers and ensure fair compensation for their produce.The announcement came during a special review meeting held at the Marri Chenna Reddy Human Resources Development Centre, where Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy met with Joint Collectors, District Civil Supplies Officers, and Civil Supplies Department managers. The minister assured the gathering that the government is committed to purchasing every grain harvested by the farmers. Key Highlights of the Grain Procurement Initiative:- **Grain Purchase Centers**: The government will establish 7,139 grain procurement centers across the state to facilitate efficient buying. Separate centers will be set up for small and large varieties of grain.- **Kharif Season Cultivation**: Farmers in Telangana are cultivating grain on 60.39 lakh acres during the Kharif season, with an estimated yield of 146.28 lakh metric tons.- **Procurement Target**: The government has set a target to procure 91.28 lakh metric tons of grain this season, ensuring that farmers have access to a stable market.- **Storage Facilities**: For the first time, godowns have been prepared to store up to 40 metric tons of grain, addressing concerns about inadequate storage space.- **Strict Vigilance**: Minister Reddy warned that strict action will be taken against any attempts to smuggle grain from neighboring states. Border areas will be closely monitored to prevent illegal procurement.The initiative will particularly benefit farmers cultivating small grain, known as *sanna*, which is grown over 36.8 lakh acres, yielding an estimated 88.09 lakh metric tons. The government’s focus on safeguarding farmers’ interests and ensuring that defaulting millers do not participate in the grain procurement process has been highlighted as a key measure in preventing exploitation.Minister Reddy’s assurance that every grain will be purchased by the state government has been welcomed by farmer groups, who view the ₹500 bonus as an essential step toward improving their livelihoods. The government’s proactive approach in setting up procurement centers and storage facilities is expected to ease the burden on farmers and stabilize grain prices.