Odisha Opposition Takes on Paddy Procurement Crisis

Odisha's opposition party, BJD, has raised issues of paddy procurement mismanagement by the state government, highlighting farmers' struggles. Allegations include closed mandis and underpayment for paddy. The party is pushing for central intervention to rectify these problems, advocating for farmer rights and fiscal justice.

Odisha's Opposition party, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), brought to light the struggles of farmers due to alleged mismanagement in the government's paddy procurement operations. The issue was raised in Parliament by BJD MP Sasmit Patra during the Zero Hour session, drawing attention to systemic concerns in Odisha's agriculture sector.

Patra criticized the practice of 'Katni-Chhatni,' where mandis arbitrarily subtract weight based on moisture content, reportedly breaching fair procurement standards. He urged central intervention to address these issues, emphasizing the BJD's commitment to fighting for the state's farmers under Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik's leadership.

Accusations include the government's failure to purchase paddy from over 8 lakh farmers and delayed payments for those who sold their produce. BJD leaders demanded an immediate overhaul of the procurement process, fair payment for paddy, and an end to weight deductions, highlighting the plight of farmers forced into distress sales.

(With inputs from agencies.)