Odisha to procure paddy from farmers even after deadline, informs Minister

In a major relief to farmers, the Odisha government has announced that it will continue procuring paddy from all token holders even though the official procurement deadline has ended. However, to be eligible, farmers who have not yet sold their paddy must undergo an iris (eye) scan, Agriculture Minister Krushna Chandra Patra confirmed.

The minister stated that completing the eye scan process today will ensure that farmers are included in the extended procurement schedule. "No farmer's token will lapse. Every farmer's paddy will be procured," he assured.

“The deadline for paddy procurement has ended today. But, the farmers who could not sell their produce and their paddy are lying unsold at mandis, I advise them to undergo an eye scan. That will be recorded and show that these farmers have their paddy still lying in mandis,” Patra informed.

“Even if there is a delay, the government will procure all the paddy lying in the mandis,” he added. 

Paddy Inflow from Chhattisgarh Raises Concern

Meanwhile, reports have surfaced that paddy from neighbouring Chhattisgarh is being smuggled into Odisha due to the high Minimum Support Price (MSP). With rates touching Rs 3,100 per quintal, the attractive pricing is encouraging traders to bring in paddy from outside the state, raising concerns about the authenticity of procurement and its impact on local farmers.

Record Procurement in Rabi Season

This year, Odisha has witnessed a record procurement of nearly 19 lakh metric tonnes of paddy during the Rabi season, a significant increase from 12 lakh metric tonnes procured last year, marking a 7 lakh metric tonne surge.
The government’s proactive steps aim to ensure that no farmer is left out and that genuine beneficiaries are supported amidst the influx of external produce.