The Odisha government has so far procured10.5 lakh metric tonnes of paddyduring the ongoing procurement season, benefiting nearly2.3 lakh farmers, Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare MinisterKrushna Chandra Patrasaid on Thursday.
Paddy procurement is currently underway in18 districtsacross the State. The Minister informed that around₹2,350 crorehas already been transferred directly to farmers’ bank accounts through the direct benefit transfer system.
He further stated thattokens have been issued to nearly 11 lakh farmers, ensuring their smooth participation in the procurement process. The government will continue paddy procurementuntil March, with a commitment to coverall eligible farmers.
The Minister also said that theCentral government will lift 6 lakh metric tonnes of ricefrom Odisha, which includes5 lakh metric tonnes of parboiled riceand1 lakh metric tonne of raw rice. The remaining1 lakh metric tonne of ricewill be auctioned by the State government. At present, Odisha has atotal rice stock of 7 lakh metric tonnes.
Minister Patra expressed gratitude toPrime Minister Narendra ModiandUnion Minister Pralhad Joshifor the Centre’s cooperation in lifting rice from the State.
Reiterating the government’s assurance, he said farmers should not have any concerns regarding procurement. “The procurement process will continue till the end of March, and we will ensure that no eligible farmer is left out,” the Minister asserted.
