Bhubaneswar: The paddy procurement process for the current kharif season is underway across Odisha. Registered farmers are being provided a minimum support price of Rs 2,300 per quintal for paddy, along with Rs 800 as input assistance. To ensure fair trade and prevent the entry of paddy from outside states into the mandis, the government has implemented strict measures.
Enforcement teams have been stationed at border areas to monitor and curb the illegal entry of paddy from other states. Currently, procurement activities are ongoing in several districts, including Bargarh, Sambalpur, Nuapada, Balangir, Kalahandi, Sonepur, Koraput, Jharsuguda, and Nabarangpur.
A total of 40 enforcement teams, comprising around 120 officers and staff, have been deployed in these districts. These teams have been instructed to take immediate action against vehicles carrying outside-state paddy. This includes seizing vehicles if irregularities are reported.
Massive awareness campaigns are also being conducted in these districts to educate farmers and stakeholders about the measures in place. District administrations have been directed to report incidents of irregularities without delay, and Civil Supply Officers have been tasked with taking necessary actions.
If required, more enforcement teams will be deployed in phases to ensure smooth and lawful procurement. District Collectors have been empowered to decide on officer deployment and take immediate corrective actions when necessary.
