Should the Centre Increase Rice Procurement Targets from Odisha for the Upcoming Kharif Season?
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Synopsis
Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has urged the Centre to boost rice procurement targets in light of an anticipated surplus for the Kharif season. This meeting with Union Minister Pralhad Joshi highlights the state's commitment to food security and farmer welfare, paving the way for better procurement strategies ahead of harvest.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha's CM advocates for increased rice procurement targets.
- Meeting with Union Minister emphasizes food security.
- Expected surplus of rice for the Kharif season.
- 63 LMT of rice projected to be produced in Odisha.
- Focus on farmers' welfare and agricultural sustainability.
Bhubaneswar, Aug 6 (NationPress) – The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, convened with Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Pralhad Joshi, in New Delhi on Wednesday, advocating for an increase in the rice procurement target from the state for the forthcoming Kharif season.
In a post shared on the social media platform X, CM Majhi provided insights into their meeting, stating, "I had the opportunity to meet Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Shri @JoshiPralhad ji today in New Delhi. I requested an enhancement of the rice procurement target for the upcoming season, considering the expected surplus in the state."
The Chief Minister also called upon the Union Minister to elevate the monthly rice lifting by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) to guarantee efficient and timely evacuation from state godowns.
Reinforcing the state’s dedication to food security and the welfare of farmers, CM Majhi discussed the proactive initiatives undertaken by the Odisha Government, including the promotion of millets, enhancement of storage facilities, and various policy measures focused on fortifying the agri-food sector.
"I highlighted the Odisha Government's proactive steps, such as the promotion of millets and the expansion of storage infrastructure, aimed at bolstering food security and protecting farmers' interests," the Chief Minister emphasized.
This meeting holds significance as Odisha braces for a record paddy harvest, and the state government aims to establish adequate procurement and distribution systems ahead of the harvest season.
According to official sources, the state currently requires 27 LMT of rice for its consumption. However, this year, a total of 93 LMT of paddy has been harvested in Odisha, encompassing both Kharif and Rabi paddy.
From this amount, an average of 63 LMT of rice is expected to be produced, significantly exceeding the state's demand. The state government had previously voiced concerns regarding the sluggish pace of FCI's procurement operations in Odisha.
Point of View
The urgency behind enhancing rice procurement targets from Odisha reflects broader challenges in ensuring food security and supporting farmers across the nation. As agricultural dynamics evolve, it is crucial for the government to strengthen procurement processes to adequately meet the demands of both farmers and consumers.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the rice procurement target important for Odisha?
The rice procurement target is vital for Odisha as it ensures that farmers receive fair prices for their produce, stabilizes the state's economy, and supports food security initiatives.
What steps has the Odisha government taken to promote agriculture?
The Odisha government has implemented measures such as promoting millets, expanding storage infrastructure, and enhancing policies to strengthen the agri-food ecosystem.
How much rice is expected to be produced this year in Odisha?
Odisha is expected to produce approximately 63 LMT of rice this year, significantly exceeding the state's consumption requirement of 27 LMT.
What challenges does the FCI face in rice procurement?
The Food Corporation of India has faced challenges related to the pace of procurement processes, which can impact the timely evacuation of rice from state godowns.
What is the significance of the Kharif season for farmers?
The Kharif season is crucial for farmers as it marks the main harvest period for rice, impacting their income and livelihoods significantly.
