Bhubaneswar, March 25: The paddy procurement process for the 2025-26 Kharif season in Odisha has entered its final phase, marking a significant milestone for the State's agricultural sector. According to the latest official reports, as of today, approximately 75,45,381 metric tonnes of paddy have arrived at various mandis across the State, with 75,20,212 metric tonnes already successfully procured.

Government data indicates that 18,11,988 farmers have sold their produce so far this year. Out of the total collected stock, millers have already lifted about 73,46,226 metric tonnes from the procurement centers.

The Minimum Support Price (MSP) mechanism has played a crucial role in ensuring that farmers receive fair value for their crops, with a staggering Rs 22,337.60 crore disbursed in MSP and input assistance payments to date.

Bargarh district continues to lead the state in procurement efforts, recording 7,70,157 metric tonnes in arrivals and 7,69,838 metric tonnes in procurement. Kalahandi follows closely with 6,43,178 metric tonnes procured, while Ganjam and Subarnapur districts have recorded 5,58,012 metric tonnes and 3,79,045 metric tonnes respectively.

In a move to ensure transparency and efficiency, the State Government confirmed that all payments are being credited directly into the bank accounts of the participating farmers.

A comparative analysis of government data as of March 24 highlights a steady upward trajectory in the state's agricultural productivity. Kharif paddy procurement stood at 58,03,664 metric tonnes in 2023-24, rising to 73,02,782 metric tonnes in 2024-25, and reaching 74,92,893 metric tonnes in the current 2025-26 cycle. With an increase of over 16 lakh metric tonnes within just two years, these figures serve as a highly positive indicator for the growth and stability of the state's rural economy.