Bhubaneswar: As part of reforms in agri-marketing sector, the Odisha Cabinet on Wednesday approved a proposal to launch a new State Plan Scheme for setting up “Model Mandis” across the state to streamline paddy procurement.
The proposal of the Cooperation Department of the state government aims to modernise the agricultural marketing ecosystem, improve farmers’ market access, reduce post-harvest losses, and ensure fair prices for produce.
Under the plan, 38 Model Mandis will be developed in the first phase — one in each district. There will be 14 large Mandis, 17 medium, and 7 small facilities, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja told reporters after the Cabinet meeting.
He said locations have been finalised after extensive fieldwork. In the second phase, another 62 mandis will be upgraded to Model Mandi status.
The Model Mandis will integrate key marketing activities under one roof with upgraded infrastructure and digital systems. Features will include modern storage facilities, raised concrete drying platforms, cover sheds, quality testing kiosks, cooling chambers, farmers’ rest-sheds, clean toilets (with separate facilities for women farmers), eateries, vending zones, bank branches, ATMs, parking areas, electronic weighbridges, relevant retail outlets, and waste disposal systems.
The project would be executed by the Odisha Bridge & Construction Corporation Ltd. (OBCC), while the Odisha State Agricultural Marketing Board (OSAM Board) will monitor progress through a dedicated Project Monitoring Cell.
The estimated cost for the first phase is Rs 300 crore, with Rs 150 crore sourced from Regulated Market Committees under the OSAM Board and the rest Rs 150 crore from the State Plan Scheme.
The government has already allocated Rs 50 crore in the current financial year for the project. The mandis are slated for completion during 2025–26 and 2026–27.