Odisha’s kharif paddy procurement process has gained significant momentum following the resolution of issues raised by rice millers.
Procurement has commenced in districts such as Sambalpur, Bargarh, Subarnapur, Kalahandi, Nuapada, and Bolangir, with other districts expected to follow soon, Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra said on Friday.
Sambalpur district has recorded the highest paddy purchase so far, leading the state in the ongoing drive. Minister Patra stated that the government has addressed several demands of millers, including an increase in custodian charges due to prolonged storage of paddy in godowns. Discussions are underway regarding milling charge hikes, while some other demands are under consideration by the Chief Minister.
Despite initial delays caused by persistent rainfall, the procurement process is now running smoothly. The Minister noted that coastal districts typically begin paddy purchase in January.
As of now, the state has procured 89,398 metric tonnes of paddy. Farmers have received ₹99.57 crore towards Minimum Support Price (MSP) and an additional ₹30.72 crore as input assistance.
District-wise breakdown shows Sambalpur at the top with 51,766 MT, followed by Bargarh with 34,305 MT. Other western districts recorded: Kalahandi (2,850 MT), Nuapada (438 MT), Bolangir (22 MT), and Subarnapur (15 MT).
District Level Procurement Committee (DLPC) meetings will be held in remaining districts, and procurement will begin as per scheduled dates. Minister Patra emphasised that the government is managing the entire process keeping farmers’ interests at the forefront.
