Registrations for Rabi procurement soon; 71.50 lakh metric tons paddy procured so far in Odisha

The Odisha government has made significant strides in its paddy procurement drive, having successfully procured 71.50 lakh metric tons of paddy so far.  With a target of 76 lakh metric tons, authorities are pushing to meet the procurement goal before the March 31 deadline, informed Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra on Sunday.

The Minister further informed that, currently, efforts are also being made to facilitate the Rabi season procurement, with registrations set to begin soon after receiving the Chief Minister’s approval. Earlier, the Odisha government had announced 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.

Also Read:  No abrupt cancellation of ration cards in Odisha, says Minister

It is pertinent to mention here that two officials were placed under suspension in February over alleged irregularity and dereliction of duty at a paddy procurement centre (Mandi) in Machhagaon under Balikuda block in Jagatsinghpur district.

Past Measures:

A round-the-clock control room was launched to oversee and resolve disruptions affecting paddy procurement in mandis across Odisha. The move aimed at promptly addressing any irregularities occurring in the mandis. 

Also Read: Odisha to set up 35 Poshan Kendras adopting Gujarat Model: Minister Krushna Patra

Through the dedicated toll-free helpline, 1967, which has been set up specifically to address complaints concerning market operations, the farmers now have an opportunity to voice their concerns.