Bhubaneswar, June 11 -- Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Government on Friday demanded a hike in Minimum Support Price (MSP) of paddy to Rs 2930 which would largely benefit the farmers of the State.

"The hike in MSP is necessitated as the farmers of Odisha are always bearing the brunt of various natural calamities. The Central assistance is not adequate for them. So, the MSP of paddy should be increased to Rs 2930 per quintal," Odisha Agriculture Minister Arun Sahoo demanded at a press meet.

"The move will help farmers get 25% profit from their product," he added.

The Minister said Odisha is the fourth largest rice manufacturing state in the country.

Keeping all aspects in view, the Centre should take measures on a serious note, Sahoo demanded...