Raighar, Dec, 23: A paddy procurement centre (mandi) was formally inaugurated today at the RMC premises in Raighar block headquarters of Nabarangpur district.
The mandi was inaugurated by lighting the ceremonial lamp in the presence of several dignitaries, including Education Minister Nityananda Gond, LAMPS Chairman Raisi Gond, Block Chairman Gupta Prasad Jhankar, MP’s representative Pritishnigdha Mahapatra, former Zilla Parishad member Sudarshan Majhi, Biswanath Sil, Raighar Sarpanch Lambodar Majhi, Zilla Parishad members Khageswar Harijan and Jatin Gond, LAMPS Planning Director Manoranjan Pattnaik, Supply Department officials, and RMC staff members Peshilal Halwa, Mahesh Halwa, and Bhai Ram Halwa, along with farmers.
Speaking on the occasion, the guests emphasized that special attention would be given to ensure that farmers do not face any inconvenience during the procurement process.
According to the Regulated Market Committee, the minimum support price of paddy has been fixed at ₹2,369 per quintal, with an additional incentive of ₹731 per quintal, making the total price ₹3,100 per quintal.
It was informed that paddy procurement will be conducted on scheduled days at different centres:
Raighar mandi – Friday and Saturday
Gona – Wednesday
Jodinga – Tuesday
Hatbharandi – Sunday
Mahand – Monday and Tuesday
It may be noted that farmers’ associations had been demanding the opening of the mandi for a long time. With the inauguration of the procurement centre, farmers have finally received much-needed relief.