Bengal Rice Mills’ Association Requests Meeting with CM Mamata Banerjee

Bengal is the leading producer of paddy, with an average yield of 2,600 kg per hectare, and rice is the primary agricultural crop.

"Rice millers in our state are involved in the procurement of around 55 lakh metric tonnes of paddy, which supports the implementation of your government's two most successful initiatives, Khadya Sathi and Duare Ration. I would like to direct your attention to the following issues for your prompt involvement and resolution," Malek wrote in his letter.

The association's seven issues include pollution control, excessive power tariffs, and demand for solar energy services, among others.

He also highlighted in his letter that managing pollution in rice mills has become extremely difficult, particularly in the disposal of ash. With government participation, the association seeks the experience of IIT, NIT, Jadavpur University, and IIEST to develop technology that may be converted into a value-added product.

Furthermore, Malek urged that the WBSEDCL power pricing be brought in line with DVC because the WBSEDCL energy tariff is high, which has increased utility costs and caused the industry to lose its competitive edge.

The implementation of a 20% export levy on raw rice has had a negative impact on the farming of aromatic rice (Gobindobhog). Malek has also asked the chief minister to raise this problem with the central government in order to resolve it as soon as possible.