Bengal to set up rice mills in 165 blocks

In a major boost to rice production, rice mills will be established in 165 blocks of West Bengal, state Finance Minister Amit Mitra said Thursday.

"There are around 1,018 rice mills in West Bengal but not every block has a rice mill. There are 165 blocks where rice is grown but these do not have even one rice mill. So, we will set up mills in these blocks," Mitra told reporters here.

He said the hilly terrain of Darjeeling district is also included in the initiative. Bengal has 341 blocks in 19 districts.

"Rice is cultivated in Kurseong, Bijanbari etc. through terrace cultivation. Those areas will also have mills," he said, adding that blocks in Junglemahal will also see additional mills.

Depending on the "intensity of cultivation" in these blocks, extra rice mills will be allotted.

"Financial rules would be followed ... the food processing ministry would be undertaking a detailed assessment of the viability of the rice mills and after calculation, they will allot mills in that block," said Mitra.

The state also plans to start 1,000 rice camps beginning Nov 27 where rice grain can bought directly from farmers.