On the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a landmark release of Rs 1,025 crore under the CM-KISAN scheme.
This initiative will benefit over 51 lakh farmers, including 50,16,938 marginal and small farmers, 49,482 landless agricultural families, and 2,382 tribal farming households across the state.
The assistance was extended to urban farmers for the first time, covering 25,532 individuals in this category. The financial aid aims to ensure seamless agricultural activities in the state, enhancing livelihood opportunities and food production capacity.
Shri Majhi participated in a traditional ploughing ceremony at the OUAT agricultural farm in Baramunda. The event highlighted the significance of Odia farming traditions, with the CM endorsing the use of traditional ploughs.
Adding a literary touch to the occasion, the Chief Minister unveiled the ‘Krushak Sangeet’ book, penned by Swabhav Kabi Gangadhar Meher in 1921. The book, a timeless ode to farmers, reflects the poet’s deep connection to agriculture and rural life. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Gangadhar Meher’s descendants, adding a personal and historical dimension to the event.
Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo praised the government’s dedication to farmers’ welfare, emphasising plans to boost agricultural exports and market linkages to ensure fair crop prices for cultivators.
Dr. Arabinda Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Agriculture and Farmer Empowerment Department, welcomed attendees, while Agriculture Director Prem Chandra Choudhary expressed gratitude to all participants. The event underscored Odisha’s commitment to blending tradition with modern agricultural practices.
