Basmati Growers Association (BGA) has asked the Government to ensure equitable returns to Basmati farmers. The Government has announced Rs 1,500 per 40 kg for Super Basmati paddy, which needs to be ensured at all costs. Although the rate announced is much below BGA's demand of Rs 2000 per 40 kg, said BGA President Hamid Malhi in a statement issued here on Thursday.
Keeping the current market situation in mind BGA has demanded that all possible means be adopted to assist the Basmati farmers at the announced rate. The Government has also arranged for the necessary finances to Passco and there seems to be no practical hurdle in its paddy purchases.
Basmati Rice is being exported at much higher rates as compared to the rates of Basmati rice in the domestic market. The exports of Basmati during 2007-08 have also increased by 20 percent in quantity. Basmati has been exported above 1,500 dollar per ton during May-September 2008 and the returns should now trickle down to the farmer, he added.
The rising costs of production have fleeced the farmer and now he is being left at the mercy of exploitative forces. The Government should intervene immediately to save this 4 billion dollar crop and export the same for bridging its foreign exchange needs. The timely action will have a dual positive impact on the economy. BGA demands for an early action by the Government.
It may be added here that the Kisan Board Pakistan (KBP) expressing concern over decreasing paddy prices had also urged the government to fix prices of Super paddy at least at Rs 1,700 per 40 kilograms.
Chairman KBP Rice Committee, Aman Ullah Chattha in a statement said that prices of Super type of paddy were witnessing a downfall and had dropped to Rs 1,100 per maund from Rs 1,700 per maund. While 386 and other types had been sold at Rs 1,050 per maund, he added.