Athmallik, Sept 21: A farmers’ mega rally was organised by the Athmallik unit of the Odisha Farmers’ Federation at Madhapur Hatapada, with farmers raising demands for the introduction of a water tax system and procurement of paddy through mandis during the Rabi season.

Former minister Sanjib Kumar Sahu attended the gathering as the chief guest. Addressing the farmers, Sahu said that since the Manjore irrigation project has been completed, the process for introducing the water tax should be expedited. He said he would discuss the matter with the Chief Minister, Agriculture Minister and Revenue Minister.

Farmers from the region, including Sushant Hota, along with federation president Debendra Pradhan, warned that the farming community would launch an agitation if the government failed to address their demands.

The meeting saw participation from a large number of farmers, who urged the government to take prompt steps on irrigation and Rabi-season paddy procurement.