Odisha Takes Proactive Measures to Protect Paddy Stocks in Mandis Ahead of Pre-Monsoon Rains

Bhubaneswar, May 24 – In anticipation of the onset of pre-monsoon rains predicted by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the Odisha government has launched comprehensive measures to safeguard paddy stocks stored in mandis during the ongoing Rabi procurement season.

Several parts of the state have already witnessed unseasonal rainfall, prompting the Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department to take proactive steps to prevent weather-related damage to the harvested paddy. Officials have been directed to educate farmers on best practices for storing paddy in safe, dry locations to minimize losses.

K. Sudarshan Chakravarthy, Managing Director of the Odisha State Civil Supplies Corporation, emphasized the importance of precautionary actions. “Measures must be in place to protect the crop from potential damage due to the anticipated rains,” he said.

Under his guidance, officials have been instructed to expedite the evacuation of paddy stocks from mandis in coordination with rice millers. All stored paddy is to be covered with high-quality tarpaulin sheets to shield it from rain and moisture. Additionally, proper drainage systems around storage areas are being ensured to avoid waterlogging.

Farmers have been warned in advance about the expected rainfall, while millers have been urged to prioritize lifting paddy stocks promptly. To support the workforce and farmers, arrangements for temporary shelters, drinking water, and Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) have been mandated at all mandis.

A recent review meeting, co-chaired by Chakravarthy, also decided to enhance surveillance by installing CCTV cameras and maintaining strict monitoring of vehicles transporting paddy from mandis to rice mills.

These measures are aimed at ensuring the smooth continuation of the procurement process while minimizing losses caused by unseasonal rains, safeguarding the interests of farmers and stakeholders in Odisha’s agricultural supply chain.