Bhubaneswar: The Odisha has decided to open the mandis for the procurement of paddy across the state from December 25 to enable registered farmers to sell their produce
Announcing this on Wednesday, Cooperation Minister Pradeep Balsamant said the government has completed preparations for paddy procurement and all registered farmers will be able to sell their paddy directly at the mandis.
Millers have been asked to clear existing stocks from warehouses to make space for new procurement, he said, adding that the government is fully prepared to handle the upcoming procurement operation.
Reaffirming the state government’s resolve to strengthen farm infrastructure, the Minister said tenders have already been floated for establishment of 32 model mandis.
The state has allocated Rs 300 crore for their development, aiming to strengthen procurement infrastructure and streamline farmer services. The government has set a target of setting up 100 model mandis in two years.
He assured that the government’s priority is to ensure smooth procurement and timely payments to farmers. By opening mandis on December 25, the state seeks to avoid delays and provide farmers with a reliable platform to sell their produce.
