No paddy procurement in April as March 31 deadline has been fixed, says Odisha Minister

The Odisha government has declared that it will halt the process of purchasing paddy from farmers after March 31, which marks the official deadline for this year's procurement cycle. 

This move is aligned with the government's strategy to efficiently meet its procurement objectives, informed Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra on Tuesday.

Significant Collection Achieved

So far, the Odisha government has successfully collected 6.5 lakh metric tonnes of paddy, reportedly, representing a substantial accomplishment by fulfilling approximately 90% of its intended target.

Also Read: Congress leader Tara Bahinipati brings serious allegation against Odisha Supplies Minister over paddy procurement

Urgent Advisory for Farmers

Farmers have been advised to have their harvests ready and delivered before the cut-off date to ensure their inclusion in the government's purchasing scheme. Any delay beyond the March 31 deadline, risks exclusion from this crucial support.

On February 16, two officials were placed under suspension over alleged irregularity and dereliction of duty at a paddy procurement centre (Mandi) in Machhagaon under Balikuda block in Jagatsinghpur district.

Also Read: IAS officer interfering for ‘Katni-Chhatni’ during paddy procurement!

Moreover, the Minister earlier alleged that an IAS officer had advised him not to interfere in farmer complaints during paddy procurement. The Minister had then vowed to end ‘Katni-Chhatni’ (malpractice) during the procurement.