Smita Mishra 
FEATURE: In the heart of Odisha, where the fragrance of freshly harvested rice wafts through the air, a quiet revolution has been unfolding. Behind the scenes, a dedicated group of visionaries has been working tirelessly to transform the state’s rice milling industry, elevating it to unprecedented heights. At the forefront of this movement stands the All Odisha Rice Millers’ Association (AORMA), a beacon of hope and resilience for the state’s rice millers. With its unwavering commitment to transparency, coordination, and collective growth, AORMA has emerged as a shining example of what can be achieved when unity and determination come together. Join us as we delve into the fascinating story of AORMA, and discover the remarkable journey of Odisha’s rice millers.
The All Odisha Rice Millers’ Association (AORMA) has been a pivotal organization in the state, representing the interests of rice millers across Odisha. Formed in 2004 by a group of eminent rice millers, AORMA has grown significantly over the years, with currently 1400 rice millers as members, including 121 patron members.
AORMA’s primary objective is to provide a unified voice for its members, fostering good relationships and better understanding among them. The association aims to create a conducive ecosystem for the development of the rice milling industry, addressing the issues faced by the industries before various authorities and institutions.
Recently, AORMA’s president, Mr. Mahesh Bansal, shared his insights on the association’s journey, its objectives, and its vision for the future. According to Mr. Bansal, AORMA was established to provide aggregated benefits to rice millers, facilitating better coordination with the government.
As the third president of AORMA, Mr. Bansal has been instrumental in driving the association’s initiatives forward. He emphasized that AORMA’s primary goal is to benefit the millers, bringing together scattered individual organizations to form a cohesive group for better coordination with the government.
Mr. Bansal highlighted the challenges faced by rice millers in the past, citing the difficulties in coordinating with the government due to their scattered presence. However, with AORMA, the millers have come together, enabling better communication and collaboration with the authorities.
Regarding the recent state budget, Mr. Bansal expressed his optimism, stating that the allocation of a significant amount towards agriculture is a positive step. He particularly appreciated the initiative to provide a bonus of ₹800 to farmers when the government price is ₹2300 per quintal. Mr. Bansal believes that this initiative will motivate farmers, ultimately benefiting the millers indirectly.
AORMA’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, as the association has been working closely with the government to address the concerns of rice millers. By providing a unified voice for its members, AORMA has been successful in creating a more conducive environment for the rice milling industry in Odisha.
As AORMA continues to work towards its objectives, the association is poised to play a vital role in shaping the future of the rice milling industry in Odisha. With its commitment to transparency, better coordination, and aggregated benefits, AORMA is an exemplary model for other industries to follow.
In conclusion, AORMA’s journey is a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of a unified voice in representing the interests of an industry. As the association continues to grow and evolve, it is likely to remain a vital part of Odisha’s rice milling industry, working tirelessly to promote the interests of its members and contribute to the state’s economic growth.
