<h1>State plans to divert surplus broken rice to ethanol, free distribution, exports, warehousing upgrades, and mill expansion</h1> A state government intends to supply broken rice for ethanol production and has convened an inter-ministerial committee to plan Kharif procurement and post-purchase management. The plan contemplates allocating surplus rice to ethanol plants, distributing free rice to low-income households, exporting excess, expanding warehousing, constructing permanent market yards, and upgrading or opening rice mills. A higher state procurement price has increased paddy cultivation and registrations. Implementation will require coordinated action by state departments and the central food agency, and raises regulatory and logistical issues concerning surplus management, storage capacity, and compliance with fuel-blending and export rules.