Dhaka, May 7 -- The government started the procurement of Boro paddy and rice across the country on Tuesday.

Food Minister Sadhan Chandra Majumder inaugurated the countywide procurement of Boro paddy through a video-conference at the secretariat.

Talking to the reporters, the minister said this year the government has set a target to procure 70 per cent within June though the Boro procurement drive will continue till August 31, as per UNB reports.

Besides, stern action will be taken against those found involved in harassing farmers during the procurement drive, he said.

The farmers can lodge complaints against anyone through mobile phone numbers, he added.

This year, the government will procure 1.7 million tonnes of paddy and rice an...