Control room, toll-free helpline set up to resolve paddy procurement issues in Andhra Pradesh — UPSC Current Affairs | December 2, 2025
Control room, toll-free helpline set up to resolve paddy procurement issues in Andhra Pradesh
The Andhra Pradesh government has established a control room and a toll-free helpline (1967) to address paddy procurement issues, having already procured 11.93 lakh MT and disbursed ₹2,830 crore to farmers; this initiative is relevant for UPSC GS3 (Agriculture) and GS2 (Government Policies). This reflects efforts to improve agricultural support systems and farmer welfare.
Overview The Andhra Pradesh government has launched a dedicated control room and a toll-free helpline number ‘1967’ to address grievances related to paddy procurement during the ongoing kharif season . This initiative aims to provide immediate support to farmers facing issues at procurement centers. Key Developments Paddy Procurement and Payments As of December 2, 2025 , the government has procured 11.93 lakh MT of paddy from 1,77,934 farmers across the State. Payments amounting to ₹2,830 crore have already been credited into the farmers’ bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Helpline Functionality Operational Hours: The helpline operates from Monday to Saturday , between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Grievance Redressal: Farmers can dial 1967 to report issues such as registration difficulties, delays in issuing tokens, weighing issues at RSKs (Rythu Seva Kendrams) or rice mills, pending FTO (Fund Transfer Order) approvals, and shortages in transportation or gunnysacks. Complaint Resolution: Complaints received are officially recorded and forwarded to the concerned officials for resolution, with continuous follow-up until the issue is resolved. Farmer Assistance Farmers are advised to keep their Aadhaar number , registration number , token number , village name , and RSK details ready while calling for assistance. Civil Supplies officials across districts are proactively contacting farmers, rice millers, and RSK operators at the mandal level to identify and resolve procurement-related issues. UPSC Relevance This initiative is relevant to GS3: Agriculture and GS2: Government Policies . It demonstrates the government's commitment to supporting farmers and ensuring efficient procurement processes. The use of a toll-free helpline and direct benefit transfer highlights the application of technology and policy interventions in addressing agricultural challenges. Important Facts Helpline Number: 1967 Paddy Procured: 11.93 lakh MT Farmers Benefited: 1,77,934 Payments Credited: ₹2,830 crore Operational Days: Monday to Saturday Operational Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.