Odisha Government fulfills ₹3,100 paddy MSP promise with additional support

Bhubaneswar, Dec 8: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi initiated the distribution of an additional input subsidy of ₹800 per quintal for paddy farmers, over and above the minimum support price (MSP) of ₹2,300 per quintal. The announcement was made at a function held in Sohela, located in Bargarh district, on Sunday.

As part of this initiative, the state government disbursed an additional ₹66 crore in input assistance to over 16,000 farmers through direct benefit transfer (DBT). Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Majhi described the day as "historic" for Odisha's farming community, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring fair pricing for paddy farmers.

The Chief Minister highlighted the significance of launching the scheme in Sohela, which is recognized as a key agricultural hub. He stated, "This initiative reflects our government’s dedication to fulfilling its promises and addressing the needs of farmers, who are the backbone of our economy."

Majhi pointed out that the program serves two key purposes. First, it aims to counter the unfulfilled promise made by the previous government in 2016, which had pledged an additional ₹100 per quintal to farmers. "In response to that deception, our government is now providing ₹800 per quintal as input assistance," he said. Second, he acknowledged Bargarh as Odisha's "rice bowl," praising the farmers in the district for their significant contribution to the state's food security.

The Chief Minister also noted the BJP’s election promise to procure paddy at ₹3,100 per quintal, declaring that this promise has now been honored. He further stated that within an hour of assuming office, his Cabinet approved the additional input subsidy to benefit paddy farmers.

Paddy procurement for the current Kharif season began on November 20, with over 21,500 farmers already selling their produce to the government, Majhi added.