In a heart-wrenching incident, Durga Bhoi, a farmer from Kurasuda village under Titilagarh block in Bolangir district, allegedly died by suicide after consuming poison on August 13, 2025.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the region, spotlighting the deepening agrarian distress caused by erratic rainfall and mounting debt. According to local reports, Bhoi had cultivated paddy and cotton this year, but crop failure due to insufficient rainfall left him in despair. Unable to repay group loans, the farmer was reportedly under severe mental stress, as confirmed by his cousin Bhaskar Bhoi.
Early this morning, Durga consumed poison and was initially rushed to Sindhekela, then to Titilagarh Sub-Divisional Hospital. As his condition worsened, doctors referred him to Bolangir, but his family opted to take him to Bhawanipatna District Headquarters Hospital. Tragically, Durga passed away en route. Doctors at Bhawanipatna declared him dead on arrival. Durga is survived by his 11-year-old son and 6-year-old daughter, leaving the community in grief and sparking discussions on the plight of farmers.
This is not an isolated case in Bolangir. Just days ago, a similar farmer suicide was reported in Muribahal block, with allegations that the administration attempted to downplay the incident.
The recurring tragedies have raised concerns about the lack of adequate support for farmers grappling with crop losses and financial burdens. Local residents are demanding immediate intervention to address the crisis and prevent further loss of life.
