Telangana to introduce rice export incentive scheme for global market expansion

Hyderabad: The Telangana government is developing a rice export incentive scheme designed to facilitate market access for farmers and rice millers across domestic and international platforms. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on central procurement mechanisms while promoting value-added agricultural products.

Irrigation and Civil Supplies Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy outlined the proposal while presiding over the launch of KCP Nutri's Multi-Vitamin Rice range in the city on Monday. He characterised fortified rice as a significant value-added offering capable of enhancing nutritional outcomes and unlocking fresh commercial avenues for the sector.

Expanding beyond state and national boundaries

Reddy stressed the necessity for Telangana's rice sector to pursue opportunities in markets extending beyond the state's geographical limits and national borders. He pointed out that the Food Corporation of India's procurement operations prioritise farmer support over export-oriented activities.

The minister pledged government backing for millers and commercial entities adhering to established quality benchmarks. He assured legitimate exporters that the state administration would facilitate the required clearances for market diversification efforts.

Addressing industry stakeholders, Reddy called for adoption of forward-thinking approaches and development of products aligned with evolving consumer demands in both domestic and overseas markets.

Strong procurement foundation supports export strategy

The minister highlighted Telangana's impressive procurement performance during the recent Yasangi season, noting the state secured 81 lakh metric tonnes of paddy. This figure substantially exceeds Andhra Pradesh's procurement of 25 lakh metric tonnes, despite the neighbouring state's larger geographical expanse.

Reddy encouraged entrepreneurs to capitalise on export opportunities and venture into markets outside Telangana's borders. He reiterated the government's commitment to backing ventures that foster agricultural value addition and food processing expansion.

The minister also commended the introduction of the multi-vitamin rice product in Hyderabad, recognising the organisers' contribution in bringing an innovative value-added rice offering to the state.