The Union government has agreed to procure an additional 6 lakh metric tons of rice from Odisha, including 5 lakh metric tons of boiled rice, by April. This decision addresses Odisha's request to procure surplus rice due to full warehouses. The state has 7 lakh metric tons of surplus rice, with the remaining 1 lakh metric tons to be sold via auction. Paddy procurement is ongoing, with over 10.50 lakh MT secured from 2.30 lakh farmers, and Rs 2,350 crore paid as MSP and input assistance.