Odisha farmers allege irregularities in paddy procurement at Nayagarh’s Ranpur society

Paddy procurement at Shankhajodi Society under Ranpur block in Odisha’s Nayagarh district has come under scrutiny, with farmers alleging large-scale irregularities and arbitrary deductions by millers.

Farmers have claimed that 8 kg of paddy per quintal is being deducted during procurement without any official justification, leading to significant losses.

They further alleged that no secretary or Regulated Market Committee (RMC) official is present at the procurement centre, allowing millers to operate without supervision.

Alleged Violations of Government Norms

According to the farmers, the deductions are being made in violation of government guidelines. They claimed that objections are met with threats of additional cuts and pressure to sell produce at lower prices.

“We have been waiting here for several days with our paddy. The millers are arbitrarily deducting 8 kg per quintal. No officials are present at the centre to hear our grievances,” a farmer alleged.

Another farmer said there is no government provision allowing such deductions. He claimed that farmers are being threatened with further cuts if they protest and are forced to sell their produce at reduced rates.

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Farmers also alleged that the 8 kg deduction is being imposed without assessing the Fair Average Quality (FAQ) standards as mandated under procurement norms.

The allegations have raised concerns over the implementation of government procurement guidelines at the grassroots level.

Lack of Basic Facilities

Apart from procurement irregularities, farmers complained about the absence of basic amenities at the society. They said there are no arrangements for drinking water or toilet facilities at the procurement centre.

They further alleged that the secretary visits the society only occasionally and not during the ongoing procurement process.

No response has been received from the millers or concerned government officials regarding the allegations.