— Over 100,000 bags targeted in major relief effort

The Government of Guyana, through the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), has stepped in to assist Region Two rice farmers by purchasing their paddy directly, aiming to ease the heavy congestion and long wait times at private rice mills.
This intervention, supplementing the ongoing efforts of private millers, follows concerns raised by rice farmers about limited outlets and private mills reaching capacity.
Vice President and People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, first engaged with affected farmers during a visit to the region. Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha and Ministry of Agriculture Director General Madanlall Ramraj later followed up with additional meetings, resulting in swift action.

In addition to the paddy purchases, the Ministry of Public Works provided free ferry transportation to support farmers moving their produce. However, many farmers preferred to sell their paddy within Region Two itself.
GRDB officially began purchasing on April 22 at the Hampton Court Mill. Farmers have since reported significantly reduced wait times, improved grading standards, and a stable purchasing price of $4,000 per bag.

Deputy General Manager of GRDB, Kuldip Ragnauth, confirmed that the Board plans to purchase over 100,000 bags of paddy. Already, 16,000 bags have been bought through a contract with miller Wazir Hussein.
Purchasing hours have been extended up to 9:00 PM daily, while GRDB officers remain stationed on-site to oversee grading and maintain quality assurance.
Ragnauth also noted that GRDB staff are stationed at the mill to grade paddy and ensure rigorous quality control, giving farmers confidence in the system.
Farmers across Region Two have expressed immense gratitude for the intervention.

Mohan Ali, one of the many farmers interviewed, said the initiative has lifted a heavy burden from their shoulders.
“The system is smooth, and we’re finally getting some relief. We’re thankful to the Government and especially to Vice President Jagdeo for his direct action,” Ali said.
Ajodhya Narine of Devonshire Castle, who cultivates 57 acres, remarked, “This is the first time the Government has actively purchased our paddy. It gives us better options and much-needed relief.”

Mohamed Amad of Maria’s Delight, managing 30 acres, shared, “Thanks to the Government, my paddy didn’t spoil. I’m very happy with this intervention.”
Another farmer, Devindra Narine, also cultivating 30 acres, praised Director General Madanlall Ramraj and Minister Mustapha for standing firmly in support of the farming community.

The GRDB’s action has clearly provided a lifeline for Region Two farmers, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to strengthening Guyana’s vital rice industry.