Anger swept through Sambalpur district on Friday as the scheduled paddy procurement process failed to commence, leaving farmers stranded with their produce and sparking threats of widespread agitation. The situation turned tense as paddy-loaded trucks remained stuck at Bareipali market yard and other mandis across the district.
Millers' Demands Halt Procurement Process
Farmers who had arrived early at procurement centers faced disappointment as the process stalled completely. The deadlock occurred after millers demanded higher transportation charges and insisted on clearance of godown rent arrears pending for the last three years. Nitesh Bansal of the millers' association made their position clear, stating, "Until dues are cleared, millers will not lift paddy." He emphasized that local millers would follow the state body's decision on the matter.
The meeting between millers and officials turned heated, culminating in millers walking out of negotiations. This development raised serious concerns among farmers that their stocks would remain unsold, potentially leading to significant financial losses.
Official Intervention Brings Temporary Resolution
Sub-collector Pushpanjali Panda later intervened in the crisis, mediating between the conflicting parties. Following her intervention, an agreement was reached that procurement would finally begin from Saturday morning. Panda confirmed the resolution, stating, "The issue has been resolved. The procurement will start on Saturday."
However, farmers remain cautious and have set a strict deadline. Byamokesh Thakur, president of the district farmers' association, issued a stern warning: "If it doesn't, farmers will block highways." The farmers have given authorities until 11 am on Saturday to begin the procurement process.
Large Scale Procurement at Risk
This kharif season, 60,614 farmers have registered for procurement in Sambalpur district, highlighting the massive scale of the potentially affected agricultural community. The procurement operation involves 127 mandis operating with support from 45 PACS, 11 SHGs and 46 millers.
Officials expressed concerns that the procurement drive might face significant mismanagement, as the new procurement mechanism remains ineffective. Farmers fear that if millers continue to refuse lifting paddy, their stocks will be left in the open, exposing critical gaps in the revised procurement system.
The situation remains tense as all parties await Saturday morning's deadline, with the district administration working to ensure the agreed-upon procurement begins smoothly and prevents further escalation of the crisis.
