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A review meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo in Bhubaneswar assessed the Rabi paddy procurement in Odisha for the 2024-25 season. The meeting revealed that the state procured a record 19 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of paddy, exceeding the initial target of 14 LMT. This marks a significant increase compared to the 12 LMT procured last year, reflecting the state’s dedication to supporting farmers. Odisha continues to offer Rs 3,100 per quintal for Rabi paddy, including Minimum Support Price (MSP) and input assistance under the ‘Samruddh Krushak Yojana.’ The government is implementing an e-KYC system for farmers to ensure transparency and prevent paddy influx from neighboring states. Discussions are underway regarding a new policy on paddy procurement. The state produced 93 LMT of paddy this year, resulting in an estimated 63 LMT of rice, far exceeding the domestic requirement of 27 LMT. The surplus will be utilized, potentially for 2G ethanol production from paddy straw and broken rice within the state.
