Bhubaneswar: The Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment has opened mandi centres at multiple locations across the State to procure Fair Average Quality (FAQ)-grade arhar (pigeon pea) at a Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Rs 8,000 per quintal.
The procurement drive began on February 14 and will continue until May 14, aiming to ensure remunerative prices for pulse growers in the State, the department said in a post on X.
Farmers have been advised to contact their nearest agriculture Officer and complete the registration process by submitting land records, photo identity proof, and a copy of their bank account details. They can register at the Seva Cooperative Samiti or the Farmers Producer Institutions near their village. The department has also enabled self-registration through the e-Samrudhi mobile app to simplify access and improve transparency in procurement.
The move is expected to strengthen pulse procurement infrastructure, prevent distress sales, and provide direct financial support to farmers through assured government purchase.
Separately, Sachin R. Jadhav, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the department, visited pilot agriculture projects in Sambalpur district to assess on-ground implementation of innovative farming models.
During the visit, he interacted with award-winning farmer Shubhadra Nayak, who has adopted a diversified Integrated Farming System model and achieved an annual income of around Rs 10 lakh. He appreciated her efforts and highlighted the importance of market-led extension services and crop diversification to enhance farmers’ income and long-term sustainability, the department said in a post on X.
The commissioner also held discussions with scientists at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra and planted an avocado sapling at Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Chipilima campus. The gesture underscored the department’s focus on innovation, capacity building, and sustainable agricultural practices.
