KHULNA, Dec 4, 2024 (BSS) - The government has set a target to procure 63,658 tonnes of boiled and atap rice in the division during the current Aman season.

As part of the nationwide Aman paddy, boiled and atap rice procurement drive, the government is collecting food grain from all 10 districts in Khulna division. The procurement drive was started on November 17 and will continue till February 28, 2025.

In addition to the rice procurement, the government will also purchase 51,973 tonnes of Aman paddy from the division at the same time.

Talking to BSS, Md Zahirul Islam Zahangir, Assistant Regional Controller of Food, said they will procure around 59,406 tonnes of boiled rice and 4,252 tonnes of atap rice this season.

He said the procurement drive of the newly harvested rice is going on in full swing everywhere in the division that creates a high hope of ensuring food security.

He also said the government has set a target to procure 59,406.35 tonnes of boiled rice, 4,251 tonnes of atap rice and 51, 973 tonnes of paddy in the division during the current season.

Aman boiled rice is being procured at Taka 47 per kilogram, atap rice is being procured at Taka 46 while Aman paddy is Taka 33.

Currently, farmers are now very much pleased with the present lucrative market price for the latest harvested Aman paddy in the entire region including its coastal belt.

Selected farmers each can supply Aman paddy to the government depot while millers will provide boiled and atap rice at the depot containing 30 kg or 50 kg in each sack. Both paddy and rice will be hoarded at the godown after examining through machines.

"We have already completed the deed with 778 mill owners in the division," Zahirul Islam said, adding that procurement drives have already begun in many upazilas of the districts.