Bhubaneswar: In a major announcement aimed at supporting farmers amid ongoing procurement challenges, Odisha Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra has assured that paddy procurement will continue uninterrupted until March 31.
The Minister stated that even if the token validity period expires, it will be extended by an additional 15 days. District Collectors across the state have been empowered to further extend this period as needed to accommodate all registered farmers. Patra emphasized that no farmer in the state will face hurdles due to delays, logistical issues, or other problems, ensuring smooth sales at the minimum support price (MSP).
The decision comes amid reports of procurement slowdowns and opposition criticisms, with the government committed to procuring paddy from all eligible registered farmers by the March 31 deadline. The move is expected to benefit thousands of farmers during the current Kharif Marketing Season.
