A torn sack found in the new bundle at a DPC in Tiruvarur.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
The Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) has raised concern over the poor quality and shortage of sacks used for paddy procurement in Tiruvarur.
INTUC State General Secretary Ka. Ilavari in a statement said that complaints had surfaced regarding the sacks sourced from neighbouring districts, which are reportedly torn or damaged, with some bundles containing fewer sacks than required.
Under the Tamil Nadu paddy procurement scheme, the Tamil Nadu Civil Supplies Corporation (TNCSC) is responsible for direct procurement from farmers. In Tiruvarur district alone, 535 procurement centres had been established. Given the estimated procurement of 5 lakh tonnes of paddy for the samba season, the district administration was expected to ensure an adequate supply of high-quality sacks. However, a shortage of sacks had been reported, leading to procurement delays.
To address the issue, sacks were brought in from other districts, but farmers and procurement workers had complained about quality defects and quantity discrepancies. Mr. Ilavari had urged that any financial loss due to these issues should not impact warehouse workers or seasonal labourers at procurement centres. He said the administration must take responsibility for resolving the issue and ensuring smooth procurement.
Official sources from TNCSC in Tiruvarur said they would look into the issue and facilitate Direct Purchase Centres (DPCs) in all possible ways.
Published – March 07, 2025 06:46 pm IST
