The operation was part of an intensive district-wide inspection and physical verification campaign across all subdivisions, jointly conducted by the Revenue and Mandi departments. Officials said the raids were aimed at ensuring compliance with rules governing rice procurement and custom milling.
The targeted mills included Kavita Rice Mill in Dharmatri subdivision, Ajay Trading Company in Demar, SK Foods in Nagri subdivision, ASW Rice Mill, and Laxmi Rice Mill in Kurud subdivision. Investigations revealed that several mill owners had stored rice in quantities exceeding permissible limits, contrary to regulatory standards.
Breakdown of seized rice indicates Kavita Rice Mill held 250 quintals, Ajay Trading Company 105 quintals, SK Foods 76 quintals, and ASW Rice Mill 72 quintals of excess rice. At Laxmi Rice Mill, authorities identified a severe shortfall of 6,989 quintals compared to declared stock.
The total value of seized and irregular rice was estimated at Rs 1.77 crore, highlighting the scale of the violations. Collector Avinash Mishra emphasized that no irregularities would be tolerated in procurement at support prices or in custom milling programs.
“Rice procurement and custom milling are critical for food security and farmers’ welfare. Any violation undermines the system and will be dealt with strictly,” said Mishra. He warned all mill owners to cooperate transparently with government authorities and comply with regulations, adding that failure to do so would result in punitive action under the provisions of the Custom Milling Codex.
Officials noted that such inspections are part of ongoing efforts to maintain transparency and prevent malpractice in agricultural supply chains. The campaign is expected to continue across the district, with authorities conducting periodic checks to ensure compliance and safeguard public interest.
The raids also serve as a reminder to millers of the legal and financial responsibilities associated with rice storage and processing, reinforcing the administration’s zero-tolerance policy against irregularities.
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