Paddy mandis to open in Balasore on December 27; Minister reviews preparations

Ahead of the opening of the paddy procurement centres, commonly known as mandis, in Balasore district on December 27, Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra convened a review meeting on Sunday.

The high-level meeting focused on ensuring the smooth operation of mandis, with an emphasis on farmers bringing paddy that meets fair average quality (FAQ) standards. The Government has outlined measures to prevent the interference of paddy dalals (middlemen), including the instalment of CCTV cameras and deployment of police surveillance, to ensure a fair procurement process.

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Besides, the meeting addressed the efficiency of the Public Distribution System (PDS) to ensure it functions effectively.

“Preparation in Balasore district was reviewed today as the paddy procurement is to begin on December 27. We discussed arrangements in the paddy mandis, including provisions for sitting, drinking water, and sheds. The appointment of nodal officers was verified. The discussion was satisfactory and preparations are in place,” the Minister said to mediapersons.

“The procurement process will go on smoothly and no farmer will face any difficulty. We have appealed to the farmers to bring paddy of FAQ standards,” Minister Patra stated.

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“For traders coming from outside the district, we have installed CCTV cameras. Patrolling vehicles will keep a strict vigil on illegal movement, if any. Outside vehicles carrying paddy will also not be allowed and the police are on alert,” the Minister added.

Among others, the District Collector, the Chief Civil Supplies Officer, the Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from Balasore Sadar, Nilagiri, Simulia, Basta, and Jaleswar and representatives of the farming community were present at the meeting.