Bhubaneswar: The procurement of Rabi paddy commenced in Bargarh district on Monday, with over 1.05 lakh farmers registering for the ongoing season.
A total of 1,05,494 farmers have enrolled in the district for the Rabi procurement season, out of which 96,377 farmers have been issued tokens to facilitate smooth procurement at mandis. The procurement process is being carried out in a phased and organised manner, with token distribution continuing after due verification of registered farmers. Preparations have also been completed in other districts where procurement will begin shortly.
The procurement of Rabi paddy will begin in Balasore, Cuttack, Puri, and Sambalpur districts from May 15, 2026. In Balasore, 38,113 farmers have registered for the current season, while 3,518 farmers in Cuttack, 22,236 in Puri, and 19,113 farmers in Sambalpur have enrolled for procurement benefits.
Extensive arrangements have been made across mandis to ensure smooth operations, especially in view of the prevailing summer heat and the possibility of unseasonal rains. Temporary sheds, drinking water facilities, and CCTV surveillance systems have been installed at procurement centres.
To ensure proper monitoring, nodal officers have been deployed at each mandi to supervise the procurement process and address any operational issues. District administrations are closely overseeing arrangements to ensure transparency and efficiency.
The government has also ensured that farmers receive timely payments. Farmers will be paid Rs 3,100 per quintal, including the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and input subsidy, directly into their bank accounts within 48 hours of procurement.
