Bhubaneswar: In a major push to streamline agricultural logistics and safeguard the interests of the farming community, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi chaired a high-level review meeting on the state’s paddy procurement process today at Lok Seva Bhawan.
The session, attended by members of the state cabinet and top administrative officials, underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring a seamless transition for farmers during the ongoing Kharif season.
Deputy Chief Ministers Shri Kanak Bardhan Singh Deo and Smt. Parvati Parida, alongside other members of the state cabinet.
Chief Secretary Shri Manoj Ahuja, Development Commissioner Smt. Anu Garg, and Principal Secretary to CM, Shri Saswat Mishra, Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Principal Secretary , Shri Sanjay Singh and Principal Secretary Agriculture, Dr.Arabinda Kumar Padhee and other senior officials were present.
Reports presented during the meeting indicated that the procurement drive is already operational in 12 districts across the state, with tokens issued to farmers in an additional 17 districts. The government announced that procurement activities will expand to five more districts within the coming week, setting a definitive deadline to have the process active in all districts by 10 January 2026.
Data released today reveals a steady pace in the current cycle, with 1,11,128 farmers having successfully sold 4,97,594 metric tonnes (MT) of paddy. The financial component of this massive operation is equally significant, with approximately Rs 1056.08 crore already disbursed to participants.
Chief Minister Shri Majhi issued a stern directive to officials to maintain absolute transparency, emphasizing that the rights and dues of farmers must remain uncompromised.
Addressing the role of millers, the Chief Minister advised them to prioritize efficient collection and ensure that payments reach the farmers without delay. He specifically highlighted that 100% attention must be given to the proper handling of grain to prevent any quality-related disputes.
Beyond paddy, the meeting signaled a strategic shift toward crop diversification. Discussions focused on the collection of non-grain crops, with the state expressing a strong intent to encourage the cultivation of Mandia (millet), pulses, and oilseeds. This initiative aims to strengthen the state’s agricultural resilience and provide more lucrative avenues for farmers.