Bhubaneswar, Odisha : Discontent among farmers in Odisha is mounting, with issues such as complex registration processes, paddy procurement irregularities, and fertiliser shortages adding to their grievances. In response, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has decided to take its agitation to the streets, beginning with a large-scale farmers’ rally in Bargarh on August 18.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the BJD Krushak Front held today at Shankha Bhavan, attended by senior party leaders, district presidents, and MLAs. The party aims to showcase its political strength in western Odisha through what it describes as a “power show” and to highlight the struggles of the farming community.
BJD leaders alleged that farmer registration, which was simple under their government, has now been made deliberately complicated by the current administration. According to the party, fewer registrations mean fewer farmers will receive input subsidies and other government support — a move they claim reflects the state government’s “ill intentions.”
Citing previous schemes such as KALIA and BALIA for farmers’ welfare during the Naveen Patnaik-led government, the BJD accused the current regime of betraying farmers by allowing arbitrary deductions during paddy procurement despite earlier assurances. They also pointed to a decline in agricultural growth, which has dropped to 3.8%, and a reduction in central grants for agriculture.
