Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has extended the registration deadline for kharif paddy procurement to ensure wider farmer participation. The decision was taken at a review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday.
So far, more than 11.5 lakh farmers have registered for the process. The registration, which began on July 19 this year—four days later than last year’s July 15 start—was initially set to end on August 20. The new deadline aims to accommodate more farmers, given the higher turnout compared to previous years.
To make the process easier, the state has introduced a simplified registration system along with the option for farmers to apply through self-declaration.
Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra announced the decision at a press conference at his official residence. The event was attended by Bhattli MLA Irashish Acharya, Bijepur MLA Sanat Kumar Gadtia, Attabira MLA Nihar Ranjan Mahananda, and Bargarh MLA Ashwini Sarangi.
