‘Ghost farmers’ to be taken to book: Odisha Minister 

The state government is facing concerns over so-called 'ghost farmers', individuals who are fraudulently registered as farmers. Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra on Friday confirmed that the list of farmers, much like the ration card roll, includes numerous non-farmers. 

Efforts are underway to identify such ghost farmers and take action against those engaging in fraudulent grain selling through fake registration. To ensure transparency and verify the authenticity of farmers, a new registration initiative is being rolled out. This process is crucial to filter genuine farmers from fraudulent claimants, he said. 

“There are some who get themselves registered as farmers. At the time of procurement, they buy paddy from original farmers at a lower price and sell them at MSP. These persons need to be identified and driven out,” said the Supplies Minister. 

Also Read: Over 40 lakh ghost ration card holders found in Odisha so far: Minister

The Minister also asked the farmers who have suffered crop loss due to the unseasonal rains not to worry as they will be compensated.  

“No farmers should get worried. The Chief Minister has categorically said that the farmers who have suffered crop loss will be compensated. The District Collectors have been directed to make an assessment and we will provide financial assistance to the farmers,” he said. 

The minister emphasised that the government remains committed to upholding Fair Average Quality (FAQ) standards for grains. If the grains do not meet these standards, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) will not proceed with procurement. Farmers are assured ample time to meet these requirements. 

In a move to aid farmers, district collectors now have the authority to extend the token period by a further 15 days. With the mandis remaining operational until March, the minister has reassured the farmers that there is no need to fear.