Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed allegations made by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin regarding paddy procurement incentives. During an election rally in Thanjavur on April 11, Stalin claimed the Centre instructed Tamil Nadu to stop providing incentives, which he argued was detrimental to farmers. In response, Sitharaman clarified that the communication sent to Tamil Nadu and other states was merely an advisory aimed at integrating state policies with national agricultural priorities. She labeled Stalin's claims as a 'complete falsehood' and politically motivated, asserting that the Centre's advice is intended to encourage crop diversification and higher profits for farmers. Sitharaman emphasized that the authority to announce incentives remains with state governments and criticized Stalin for engaging in diversionary tactics for political gain. She reaffirmed the National Democratic Alliance government's commitment to supporting farmers across all states, regardless of the ruling party.