BJD MP Sasmit Patra Raises Odisha Farmers’ Distress in Rajya Sabha

BJD Rajya Sabha MP Dr Sasmit Patra, speaking during Zero Hour, highlighted the urgent need to address farmers’ issues across India and particularly in Odisha.

He said farming has become a high-risk, low-return occupation due to rising input costs, climate-induced crop losses, broken procurement systems, and delayed crop insurance.

[Odisha Farmers suffering due to closed Mandis, Katni-Chatni and lack of Paddy Procurement]

Taking the voice of Odisha to the floor of the Rajya Sabha, I utilized Zero Hour today to spotlight the serious systemic issues confronting our state. Under the leadership of our hon’ble… pic.twitter.com/XmQIKU865u

— ଡ଼ଃ ସସ୍ମିତ ପାତ୍ର I Dr. Sasmit Patra (@sasmitpatra) February 2, 2026

Odisha’s Specific Concerns

Dr Patra pointed out that 4.5 crore people of Odisha are facing alarming challenges:

Paddy procurement collapse: Mandis are dysfunctional, forcing farmers into distress sales below MSP.
Katni-Chatni deductions: Arbitrary cuts at procurement centres exploit small and marginal farmers.
MSP denial: Farmers are not paid MSP for their entire produce due to procurement caps and diversions.
Fertiliser shortages: Acute shortages during peak sowing season raise cultivation costs and reduce yields.
Crop insurance failure: Farmers remain unprotected against losses, deepening debt and distress.

Speaking on behalf of BJD president Naveen Patnaik, Dr Patra demanded immediate central intervention to safeguard Odisha’s farmers. He stressed that food security itself is at risk if farmers are not protected and reiterated BJD’s commitment to fighting for Odisha’s rightful dues.