Bhubaneswar, Aug 2: In a significant move to enhance agricultural infrastructure, the Odisha Government announced plans to establish model mandis (markets) in all 30 districts by 2026. The initiative was revealed by Co-Operation Minister Pradeep Bal Samanta during a statement on Friday.
Minister Samanta emphasized that if required, larger districts will be equipped with two mandis, raising the total number of model mandis to 38 across the state by next year.
These model mandis will be built with modern facilities to cater to both farmers and consumers. The infrastructure will include essential amenities such as drinking water, toilets, restrooms, electricity, parking spaces, and food outlets, which will be operated by women Self Help Groups (SHGs).
During a review meeting earlier in the day, the Minister presented the design blueprint of these model mandis to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who expressed support for the project.
This initiative is part of the BJP government's broader vision to uplift rural infrastructure. Since coming to power in 2024, Chief Minister Majhi’s administration has been committed to improving agricultural infrastructure, including the development of cold storage facilities in every sub-division and the transformation of existing mandis into model mandis.
The establishment of these mandis is expected to improve market access, reduce post-harvest losses, and empower women through SHG-operated services, contributing significantly to Odisha's agricultural economy.
