The paddy procurement process for the ongoing kharif season has commenced in Deogarh district, marking an important step in the state government’s efforts to ensure timely procurement and fair remuneration for farmers.

Procurement is being carried out through 51 mandis across the district, covering 21,414 registered farmers this season. To ensure smooth operations, the administration has deployed 51 Mandi Nodal Officers along with 13 supervising officers to monitor the process.

Compared to last year, the number of registered farmers has increased significantly from 19,662, while two additional mandis have been brought under operation this year. The total registered paddy cultivation area has also risen to 62,747 acres, up from 58,249 acres in the previous kharif season.

Officials said that a satellite survey of all registered paddy-cultivated areas has been completed to ensure transparency and prevent irregularities. Basic facilities have been arranged at all mandis, and CCTV cameras have been installed to strengthen monitoring and accountability.

Meanwhile, paddy procurement is already underway in several other districts including Bargarh, Nuapada, Sambalpur, Kalahandi, Sundargarh, Subarnapur and Balangir. As of now, a total of 3,05,050 metric tonnes of paddy has been procured from 67,250 farmers across these districts.

In terms of payments, the government has already disbursed ₹447.22 crore as Minimum Support Price (MSP) and an additional ₹138 crore as input assistance to farmers.

Officials stated that procurement in the remaining districts will begin in a phased manner, with all necessary preparations currently underway. Registered farmers are being informed in advance, and tokens are being issued to avoid overcrowding at mandis.

The state government has ensured that MSP payments are credited to farmers’ bank accounts within 48 hours through an Aadhaar-linked e-KYC payment system. Adequate facilities have also been arranged at procurement centres to support farmers during the process.

The government reiterated its commitment to farmer welfare, stating that multiple initiatives are being implemented for the overall development and financial security of farmers across the state.

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