Odisha Commits to Timely Crop Insurance and Loan Support for Farmers

Odisha government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring transparency in the distribution of agricultural loans and timely compensation for farmers enrolled in the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY).

In a high-level meeting chaired by Cooperation, Handicrafts, Textiles, and Handlooms Minister Pradeep Bal Samanta, the state emphasised its dedication to agricultural development and farmer welfare.

The meeting, held today in Bhubaneswar, focused on enhancing the efficiency of crop loan disbursement through cooperatives and ensuring prompt insurance payouts for farmers affected by crop losses. Minister Samanta directed officials to collaborate with insurance companies to expedite compensation processes. “The state is committed to the progress of agriculture and the welfare of farmers,” he stated, highlighting the need for accountability in the system.

Legislators, including Pratap Keshari Deb (Aul), Pradeep Kumar Sahu (Begunia), Ashok Kumar Das (Basudevpur), Shatrughan Jena (Kamakhyanagar), and Sarada Pradhan (Mahanga), attended the meeting and offered valuable suggestions to strengthen agricultural support systems.

Rajesh Prabhakar Patil, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Cooperation Department, delivered the introductory address, while Siddharth Das, Registrar of Cooperative Societies, proposed the vote of thanks. Joint Secretary Sangram Keshari Rout presented a detailed overview of the initiatives through a PowerPoint presentation.

Key stakeholders, including NABARD’s Chief General Manager Sanjay Kumar Talukdar, AGCS Santosh Kumar Nayak, CEOs of Central Cooperative Banks, and senior officials from the Cooperation Department, participated in the discussions. They shared insights on improving agricultural loan access and ensuring the effective implementation of the PMFBY to safeguard farmers’ interests.

The meeting reflects Odisha’s ongoing efforts to bolster its agricultural sector, which remains a cornerstone of the state’s economy. By prioritizing transparency and efficiency, the government aims to empower farmers and promote sustainable agricultural growth.