Bhubaneswar, Dec 22: Odisha Cooperation Minister Pradeep Bal Samanta has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to smooth paddy procurement and returning chit fund money to affected depositors.

Addressing media, he highlighted the progress made in the ongoing procurement season and clarified the government’s stance on farmer protests.

Samanta stated that 3,85,405 tonnes of paddy have already been procured from 85,183 farmers across the state. He emphasized that procurement is continuing daily and assured farmers that the government is working to ensure timely lifting of paddy.

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However, he acknowledged that immediate lifting on the same day of delivery is not feasible, as the process requires one to two days.

The minister alleged that certain groups and opposition parties are attempting to malign the government by instigating protests among farmers. “Some people are provoking farmers to agitate, demanding instant lifting of paddy. This is not practically possible, but procurement is happening regularly,” he said.

On the chit fund issue, Samanta underlined that the Odisha government has taken a firm decision to return money to depositors who suffered losses during the chit fund scam. He criticized the previous BJD government, stating that despite CBI intervention, affected investors did not receive refunds.

“Now, our government has initiated the process to ensure that victims get back their money,” he added.

The minister’s remarks come amid farmer demonstrations in different parts of the state, where demands for faster procurement and immediate payments have been raised. His assurance aims to calm tensions and reinforce the government’s commitment to both agricultural and financial justice.

With procurement continuing steadily and the chit fund refund process underway, the government hopes to restore confidence among farmers and depositors alike.