Patna, April 8 -- Bihar has achieved a major milestone in agricultural procurement, with the state purchasing 36.79 lakh metric tonnes (MT) of paddy against a target of 36.85 lakh MT during the 2025-26 Kharif season, Food and Consumer Protection Minister Leshi Singh announced on Wednesday.

Addressing reporters in Patna, the minister described the achievement as a strong indicator of Bihar improving procurement efficiency and farmer outreach. The state is now on the verge of fully meeting its Kharif paddy target.

While rice procurement currently stands at 12 lakh MT, below the seasonal target of 25 lakh MT, Singh expressed confidence that the shortfall will be bridged soon. The rice procurement target is expected to be achieved by June 1...