Overview The Navnirman Krushak Sangathan (NKS) , a farmers’ organization, initiated an Odisha bandh on January 28, 2026 , to protest alleged mismanagement in paddy procurement . The Congress party extended its support to the shutdown, highlighting the political dimensions of the issue. This event brings to the forefront the challenges faced by farmers in Odisha and the effectiveness of existing agricultural policies. Key Developments Bandh Date: January 28, 2026 Organizer: Navnirman Krushak Sangathan (NKS) Reason: Protest against mismanagement in paddy procurement Support: Congress extended support to the bandh BJD Response: Announced separate protests on farmer issues from February 2 to 16 Demands and Allegations NKS , led by convenor Akshay Kumar , has been advocating for: Remunerative prices for agricultural produce Dignity for farmers A farmer security allowance (pension) Mr. Kumar alleged that the current paddy procurement mandis are chaotic and non-functional. Key issues include: Arbitrary deductions ranging from 4 kg to 10 kg per quintal under the pretext of FAQ (Fair Average Quality) norms Slow lifting of paddy, with only 10 or 20 quintals being lifted against a truck capacity of 40 quintals Objection to the Food Supplies Minister’s statement limiting input assistance eligibility to farmers supplying up to 150 quintals of paddy Political Reactions Congress: Supported the bandh, with party president Bhakta Charan Das leading protests against the Mohan Charan Majhi Government’s policies affecting farmers. Biju Janata Dal (BJD): While not formally supporting the bandh, the party announced weeks-long protests on farmer issues from February 2 to 16 . UPSC Relevance This news article is relevant to the UPSC Civil Services Exam , particularly for GS Paper 3 (Economy, Agriculture) and GS Paper 2 (Government Policies) . It highlights the challenges in agricultural policy implementation, farmer distress, and the role of political parties and farmer organizations in addressing these issues. Understanding the dynamics of paddy procurement, MSP, and farmer protests is crucial for aspirants. Important Facts for Prelims NKS called for the Odisha bandh . The bandh was on January 28, 2026 . Congress supported the bandh. BJD announced separate protests. Key issues include paddy procurement and FAQ norms . Potential Mains Questions Analyze the challenges in paddy procurement in Odisha and suggest measures to improve the system. Evaluate the role of farmer organizations in influencing agricultural policies in India. Discuss the impact of MSP on farmer income and agricultural sustainability.