Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday issued a strong warning to traders and buyers against exploiting farmers during the ongoing paddy procurement season, saying the state government will not tolerate the purchase of paddy below the fixed government rate. Speaking to the media in Diphu on January 14, the Chief Minister said the Assam government has fixed the procurement price of paddy at ₹2,670 per quintal and made it clear that this price is final and non-negotiable. He said any trader, miller or private buyer found purchasing paddy at a lower rate would face strict legal action. Dr. Sarma said the government is keeping a close watch on procurement activities across the state to ensure that farmers get the full price they are entitled to. “Farmers work hard throughout the year. They should not be forced to sell their produce at unfair prices,” he said, adding that the administration has been instructed to act firmly against violations.
The Chief Minister criticised middlemen and dishonest traders, saying they often take advantage of farmers who lack direct access to markets or need immediate cash. Such practices, he said, lead to distress sales and losses for cultivators. “This exploitation will not be allowed. The government stands with the farmers,” he said. Reaffirming the government’s pro-farmer approach, Dr. Sarma said protecting the interests of cultivators remains a top priority. He added that clear enforcement mechanisms are already in place and any breach of procurement rules will invite punishment under the law. In an important announcement, the Chief Minister said the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council is considering a proposal to set up rice mills in each Legislative Autonomous Council area under its jurisdiction. He said this step would help farmers sell their paddy locally without depending heavily on private traders.
According to Dr. Sarma, local rice mills will improve value addition, ensure smoother procurement at fair prices, and create employment opportunities in the hill districts. He said the move would also strengthen long-term agricultural sustainability by building local processing capacity and reducing exploitation. The Chief Minister said the government is committed to ensuring that farmers receive fair returns for their produce and that no one is allowed to profit at their expense during the procurement season.