Paddy procurement to begin in Odisha tomorrow; stern action against ‘Dalals’

Necessary preparations are in place to facilitate smooth procurement of paddy, which is to commence in Odisha from November 20 (Wednesday), an official said on Tuesday.

The State government will initially purchase paddy in Bargarh district tomorrow and extend it to Sambalpur on November 21. Special arrangements have been made in all procurement centres across these two districts.

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According to sources, monitoring of the procurement process, from purchase to sale, will be undertaken by a designated official. This includes ensuring that farmers receive appropriate compensation for their produce. The officer will report to the District Collector in the evening, who will subsequently present a report to the Government.

Additionally, each group of four to five centres will be overseen by a dedicated observer. Police have been tasked with monitoring Dalals (middlemen) and ensuring they do not enter the procurement centres, which will be supported by intensified police patrolling.

The Government is focusing on ensuring that farmers receive not just fair prices, but also an additional aid of Rs 800, Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari said mediapersons emphasising this aspect of the scheme.

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“Bargarh and Sambalpur districts are the largest contributors of paddy in the State. Bargarh alone contributes one-sixth of the total paddy procured. This time, we have made error-free arrangements unlike the previous government,” the Revenue Minister asserted.

Earlier in the day, Civil Supplies Minister Krushna Chandra Patra reviewed the procurement preparations in Nuapada and declared that ‘katni chhatni’ will be entirely stopped. Actions will be taken against those found engaged in such practices, he warned.