THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR,
JANUARY 19, 2026
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan
Majhi has assured farmers that the state government is fully prepared for
smooth paddy procurement, following the Centre’s decision to lift 8 lakh metric
tonnes of rice from Odisha. The assurance comes as a major relief to
cultivators ahead of the procurement season, reinforcing the government’s
commitment to safeguarding farm incomes.
Addressing a gathering after
inaugurating the Kalahandi Ghumura Mahotsav–2026, the Chief Minister
highlighted a series of measures aimed at strengthening the rural economy. He
said farmers are now receiving an additional Rs 800 per quintal of paddy, along
with annual financial assistance of Rs 10,000 under the combined PM Kisan and
CM Kisan schemes. These interventions, he noted, have resulted in an average
increase of nearly Rs 71,000 in annual earnings for a farmer family.
“The Centre has agreed to lift 8 lakh metric
tonnes of rice from Odisha. Accordingly, the state government is making all
necessary arrangements to procure paddy directly from farmers,” Majhi said,
adding that the focus remains on timely procurement and fair compensation.
The Chief Minister also outlined an
ambitious irrigation and agricultural development roadmap for western Odisha.
He announced plans for the Rs 3,325 crore Utei Rawal irrigation project, the
Belgaum intra-river reservoir and the Sandul Barrage, projects expected to
significantly enhance irrigation coverage and agricultural productivity. In a
bid to diversify and strengthen farm incomes, the Kalahandi-Nabarangpur region
will be developed as a dedicated cotton production cluster.
Emphasising the combined impact of
state and central welfare schemes, Majhi said improved irrigation facilities,
assured procurement and direct financial support are transforming the lives of
farmers across Odisha, setting the stage for sustainable agricultural growth
and rural prosperity.
