In a vibrant celebration blending tradition and transformative governance, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi turned the sacred Akshaya Tritiya and State-level Farmers’ Day into a milestone moment for Odisha’s agriculture sector.
At the Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI) in Cuttack, the Chief Minister performed the traditional *Akhi Muthi Anukula* ritual on the field, symbolically marking the beginning of a new agricultural year, before announcing a slew of farmer-centric initiatives that promise to reshape the state’s rural economy.
In his biggest announcement of the day, CM Majhi revealed that ₹838.48 crore has been transferred directly to the bank accounts of 41,68,582 farmers under the CM-Kisan Yojana. The bulk of the beneficiaries — 41,24,241 small and marginal farmers, 41,049 landless farmers, and 3,292 tribal farmers — will receive the support through DBT, ensuring transparency and speed.
“Farmers are the real charioteers of a prosperous Odisha,” declared the Chief Minister while addressing a packed gathering of farmers, dignitaries, and officials. He emphasised that agriculture remains the backbone of the state’s economy, culture, and prosperity. “On this auspicious Akshaya Tritiya, we are not just continuing tradition — we are giving it new momentum with modern, farmer-friendly policies.”
“Ama Bihan Rath” – Seeds Reach Every Village
The highlight of the programme was the grand launch of *Ama Bihan Rath* (Seeds on Wheels) — a mobile seed-distribution initiative designed to make high-quality, certified seeds available at the doorstep of every farmer. In the first phase, 31 blocks across 10 districts will be covered. Each mobile unit will carry 5-kg packets of the latest high-yielding rice varieties, eliminating the hassle of long-distance travel for farmers.
The Chief Minister also outlined a new roadmap for agriculture that seamlessly integrates traditional *Mandia* (millets) cultivation with modern organic farming practices. Under the “Balabhadra Jaibik Chasa Mission” and the strengthened “Sri Anna Abhiyan”, the government aims to position Odisha’s traditional crops on the global stage.
Record-Breaking Achievements That Speak Volumes
Odisha has scripted a new chapter in agricultural progress. The state’s agricultural growth rate has touched an impressive 5.3% — higher than the national average — while foodgrain production has crossed 150 lakh metric tonnes, creating a fresh all-time record. Paddy procurement under the state’s MSP scheme continues at ₹3,100 per quintal. In the 2025-26 kharif season alone, 76.47 lakh metric tonnes of paddy were procured from 18,55,661 farmers, with ₹5,589.98 crore disbursed as input assistance.
Adding an emotional and long-term dimension, the government is also supporting the children of farmers through the Krushi Vidyanidhi Scholarship Scheme. This year, 68,910 students from farming families have received over ₹291.60 crore to pursue technical and professional education.
Centre-State “Double Engine” Delivering Results
CM Majhi credited the seamless coordination between the Central and State governments for the accelerated progress. He specially thanked Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for the “Beej Se Bazaar” vision and the recently launched PM Dhan-Dhanya Krishi Yojana, under which four tribal districts of Odisha — Kandhamal, Malkangiri, Sundargarh, and Nuapada — have been included.
Deputy Chief Minister Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, who also addressed the gathering, urged farmers to buy fertilisers only from authorised dealers using Aadhaar and OTP, and to always collect the POS machine slip. “Our mother soil must be protected,” he said, appealing for judicious use of balanced fertilisers.
Dignitaries Present
The event was graced by Cuttack MP Bhartruhari Mahtab, Jagatsinghpur MP Bibhu Prasad Tarai, several MLAs, including Chhabi Malik (Niali), Souvic Biswal (Chaudwar-Cuttack), and others. Senior officials, including Agriculture Secretary-cum-Commissioner Sachin Ramchandra Yadav, Cuttack District Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde, and CRRI Director Dr G.K. Kumar, were also on the dais.
As the sun set over the golden fields of Cuttack, one message rang loud and clear: Odisha’s farmers are no longer just tillers of the soil — they are partners in the state’s journey towards a self-reliant, prosperous, and sustainable future. With direct cash support, doorstep seed delivery, record production, and a clear vision, the state government has sent a powerful signal — *Krushak Bandhu* is not just a slogan, it is a living commitment.
