Bhubaneswar, Jan. 1 -- The Odisha government has so far procured 10.5 lakh metric tonnes of paddy during the ongoing procurement season, benefiting around 2.3 lakh farmers, the Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra informed on Thursday.

Paddy procurement operations are currently underway in 18 districts of the State.

According to the Minister, a total of Rs 2,350 crore has already been transferred directly to farmers' bank accounts. He further stated that tokens have been issued to nearly 11 lakh farmers so far, ensuring smooth participation in the procurement process. Paddy purchase will continue till March this year, and the State government aims to procure paddy from all eligible farmers.

Besides, the Cen...