Khaira: Resentment is brewing among farmers over halting of paddy procurement in 14 cooperative societies over last five days in Kahira block of Balasore. Farmers alleged that miller agents have bought paddy from middlemen and have tried to show in documents that paddy procurement has been done.
The paddy procurement has been halted due to an alleged unholy nexus between middlemen and the administration.
Meanwhile, upset over the problem, farmers have warned of staging an agitation before the cooperative societies.
Farmers affiliated to Osanga Cooperative Society had apprised the Collector February 4 about the mess in paddy procurement. Farmers of other cooperative societies will also take up the issue with the Collector soon.
Reports said, 9,000 farmers had registered online for sale of 4,06,656 quintals of paddy to 14 cooperative societies in the block.
Thousands of farmers have stocked their paddy in their houses awaiting to dispose them off.
Farmers also alleged that the government has been paying for transportation cost and sacks, but the cost is deducted from them.
With paddy remaining unsold, traders from other states are taking advantage of the situation.
Millers are not turning up for procurement at Mirazaur, Bartana, Manitiri and Antara. Harvested paddy has been left in the yards of farmers. They have to keep watch on the paddy amid chilly weather.
“We are hopeless after keeping a watch on out paddy stock to be sold,” lamented farmer Kapilendra Sahu.
Officials of the district civil supplies department said that measures are being taken to streamline the paddy procurement.
PNN
