Farmers blocked National Highway 353 in Nuapada district demanding lifting of rabi paddy from local mandis. The administration intervened late at night and restored traffic flow after 1 hour 30 minutes.
Farmers placed paddy sacks on the highway near Khariar block mandis, alleging delays in procurement. Officials assured that 70 per cent of the paddy would be lifted from mandis, including Khariar, Sanmaheshwar, Arada, Bhojpur, Duajhar, Bargan, Lanjhi and Khadapej. Farmers continued their agitation despite assurances, citing losses as stored paddy began to rot.
At 1:30 a.m., magistrates and police forcibly cleared the highway, making NH-353 operational again. Traffic movement returned to normal. Farmers claimed they funded the protest themselves, though local BJD and Congress leaders extended shadow support.
Khariar mandi reported 23,700 quintals of paddy, Sanmaheshwar 8,370 quintals, Arada 11,670 quintals, Bhojpur 9,350 quintals, Duajhar 9,000 quintals, Bargan 10,836 quintals, Lanjhi 9,212 quintals and Khadapej 8,280 quintals awaiting lifting. The administration promised 70 per cent procurement across these mandis.
Police engaged with farmers at the protest site and persuaded them to withdraw. Reports suggest cases may be registered against some leaders and farmers, though police have not yet issued an official statement.
The farmers’ protest highlighted ongoing procurement challenges in Nuapada district, where delayed lifting of rabi paddy continues to cause distress.
