Bhubaneswar, Dec 26: With Kharif season paddy procurement underway, the Odisha government has intensified measures to ensure transparency and prevent unauthorized inflow of paddy from neighbouring states, officials said on Friday.

Enforcement teams have been deployed across border districts, including Nuapada, Bargarh, Jharsuguda, and Sundargarh, to monitor vehicles and curb irregularities.

Officials said that awareness campaigns are being conducted to encourage registered farmers to sell their produce at designated Mandis. At the same time, strict surveillance has been introduced to prevent paddy from Chhattisgarh and other states being sold in Odisha.

In Nuapada district, camera-mounted vehicles and staff have been stationed at border check posts in Khariar Road under Nuapada block and Sinapali under Sinapalli block. These teams are tasked with sealing borders and conducting daily checks on vehicles suspected of carrying unauthorized paddy. Police station in-charges (IICs) have been directed to maintain round-the-clock vigilance at border points.

District collectors have issued strict instructions empowering enforcement teams to seize vehicles immediately if irregularities are detected. Civil Supply Officers are extending logistical support to ensure smooth functioning of the monitoring system.

The government has emphasized that the measures are aimed at protecting the interests of local farmers and maintaining fairness in procurement. Officials noted that block-level teams are also on alert to act promptly on tip-offs.

By deploying technology-enabled surveillance and strengthening coordination among police, civil supplies, and district administration, Odisha is striving to thwart attempts to transport paddy illegally across borders during the current procurement season.