Is the BJD Right to Criticize the Odisha Government Over Collapsed Paddy Procurement?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a scathing critique, BJD leader Prasanna Acharya highlights the failures of the Odisha government in paddy procurement. Farmers struggle as market yards remain closed, and Acharya vows to stand with them against government apathy. This situation raises concerns about the future of agriculture in Odisha.
Key Takeaways
- Procurement System Failure: The paddy procurement system in Odisha is reportedly non-functional.
- Farmer Distress: Farmers are experiencing severe financial distress due to low procurement rates.
- Protests Planned: BJD plans to protest alongside farmers to demand government action.
- Comparative Figures: Only 8% of registered farmers in Odisha sold their paddy, compared to 41% in Chhattisgarh.
- Government Apathy: Criticism was aimed at the Odisha government for its lack of response to the crisis.
Bhubaneswar, Dec 30 (NationPress) Senior BJD figure and Deputy Leader of Opposition Prasanna Acharya criticized the Odisha Government on Tuesday, claiming that the paddy procurement framework in the state has “entirely failed”, forcing farmers to sell their produce at distress prices.
During a press briefing, Acharya remarked that even though the procurement season has commenced, the majority of market yards throughout Odisha remain closed, indicating that the administration is “not prepared” to buy paddy from registered farmers.
“Farmers are in grave distress. They cannot sell their crops at the Minimum Support Price (MSP). In several regions, even input subsidies are not reaching them,” he alleged.
Acharya asserted that the government’s indifference has led farmers to take to the streets in protest. He provided comparative procurement statistics, noting that approximately 41 percent of registered farmers in Chhattisgarh have already sold their paddy to the government, whereas in Odisha, the figure is merely 8 percent.
“This reflects the dire situation in Odisha. Farmers need funds for the upcoming crop (Dalua cultivation), but without procurement at MSP, they are left with no choice but to sell at lower prices,” he stated.
The BJD leader added that his party had raised this issue vigorously during the last Assembly session, yet the government remained unresponsive.
“We are left with no choice. Together with the farmers, we will protest to reclaim their rights,” Acharya declared, condemning the government for its negligence towards the crisis affecting rural Odisha.
Even though paddy procurement has initiated in 13 districts of the state, the BJD maintains that the process has completely failed.
The senior leader accused the state government of celebrating its provision of an input subsidy of Rs 800 per quintal of paddy; however, this appears to be a mockery and a betrayal of farmers in light of the real situation regarding paddy procurement.
Acharya also mentioned that the paddy procurement target for Odisha has been established at 73 lakh metric tons, while it is 80 lakh metric tons for Chhattisgarh, despite the latter being a smaller state.
He criticized the state government for its silence on the matter and for failing to urge the central government to increase Odisha's paddy procurement target.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the challenges faced by farmers across India, particularly in Odisha. The BJD's concerns about the procurement system echo a broader issue of agricultural distress. It's vital for governments at all levels to prioritize farmers’ welfare, ensuring they receive fair prices for their produce and necessary support during procurement seasons.
NationPress
06/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current situation of paddy procurement in Odisha?
The paddy procurement system in Odisha is reported to have collapsed, with only 8% of registered farmers able to sell their produce, compared to 41% in Chhattisgarh.
Who criticized the Odisha government regarding this issue?
Senior BJD leader and Deputy Leader of Opposition Prasanna Acharya strongly criticized the Odisha government for its failure in the paddy procurement process.
What are the implications for farmers in Odisha?
Farmers in Odisha are facing severe distress as they cannot sell their paddy at the Minimum Support Price, which is forcing many to sell at lower prices.
What is the BJD's plan in response to this crisis?
The BJD plans to join farmers in protesting against the government's inaction regarding the procurement issue.
What subsidy has the Odisha government provided?
The Odisha government has announced an input subsidy of Rs 800 per quintal of paddy, but this has been criticized as insufficient given the procurement crisis.
