Khariar: The administration has closed the paddy mandi in Baragaon under Khariar block in Nuapada district, which was opened by the Seva Cooperative Society. The mandi was closed much before the procurement target of paddy could be achieved.
This has created strong resentment among farmers who could not sell their paddy.
Sources said the administration had made arrangements to procure paddy through the society.
This time the mandi was opened a month late and due to a nexus between corrupt officials and millers, paddy was procured from farmers after deducting four to five kg per quintal. But the sudden closure of the mandi has left the farmers helpless.
The farmers had applied for identity cards to sell their paddy online. But, they could not sell their produce in time due to the late issue of ID cards to farmers by the administration.
They had also requested in writing to the society to open the mandi once again. Thousands of paddy bags are still lying unsold at the homes of farmers, and this has added to their woes.
Ashok Dash, supply officer of Nuapada, said, “We have already closed the mandis in the district. If any farmer could not sell his paddy it must be brought to our knowledge. We will take necessary steps.”
The farmers have requested the Collector to reopen the mandi.
PNN
