The Balasore district administration foiled an attempt to illegally transport paddy into Odisha from West Bengal, seizing 1,800 bags during a raid near the Laxmannath toll gate. Acting on intelligence, officials intercepted three trucks lacking valid transportation documents. Three drivers were detained for questioning, but the primary middleman fled.
The seizure highlights concerns over Odisha’s higher minimum support price (MSP) of Rs 3,100 per quintal, which has reportedly attracted middlemen from neighbouring states. Authorities have tightened border surveillance with camera-equipped vehicles and technology-based monitoring to prevent such illegal operations. Investigation is ongoing.