TNI Bureau: In a significant relief to farmers, the Odisha government has extended the deadline for paddy procurement in the ongoing Kharif season. The announcement was made by Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra, following reports that several farmers were unable to sell their produce within the stipulated timeframe.

The decision aims to ensure that no farmer is forced into distress sales and that all eligible farmers get a fair opportunity to sell their paddy at the Minimum Support Price (MSP). The procurement period, which officially ended on March 31, has now been extended by an additional seven days.

According to the minister, the state has already procured around 77 lakh metric tonnes of paddy this season. As many as 18.64 lakh farmers have successfully sold their produce so far. Importantly, the government has assured that no farmer’s token will lapse, a key concern among those who were yet to complete the sale process.

Data from the Food Odisha portal indicates that 19.27 lakh farmers were deemed eligible for paddy sales this season. Of these, 17.84 lakh farmers had sold their produce by Monday, leaving a section still awaiting procurement.

The government has also disbursed ₹22,884 crore directly into farmers’ bank accounts, underscoring its commitment to farmer welfare. The extension is expected to bring relief to those who were at risk of missing out.