Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi made a significant announcement on Friday, declaring that the much-anticipated Kanupur irrigation project in Keonjhar district will become operational within the next three months. The announcement came during the launch of the district's paddy procurement drive at Palaspanga, where he addressed a gathering of farmers.
Major Boost for Farmland Irrigation
Once functional, the Kanupur irrigation project is projected to transform agriculture in the region by irrigating a massive 15 lakh hectares of farmland over the coming three years. This large-scale infrastructure initiative is expected to significantly enhance water security for countless farmers, potentially revolutionizing crop yields and agricultural stability in the area.
Substantial Support and Promises Kept for Farmers
In his address, CM Majhi highlighted his government's proactive steps to support the agricultural community. He emphasized that the state is currently providing a bonus of Rs 800 per quintal of paddy, a move he stated has greatly boosted farmers' confidence. Taking a direct jab at the previous administration, Majhi claimed, "The previous govt promised Rs 100 more but failed to deliver. We kept our promise and gave you Rs 800."
He further revealed plans to personally visit and felicitate beneficiaries who receive the substantial Rs 1 crore subsidy under the Chief Minister’s Agriculture Development Scheme. The Chief Minister also issued a stern warning to officials, stating that any lapse in transparency during the paddy procurement process would invite strict disciplinary action.
Promoting Crop Diversification and Strengthening Societies
Looking beyond paddy, the government is actively considering providing higher incentives for non-paddy crops such as pulses, oilseeds, and millets. This policy shift aims to achieve a triple objective: improving nutritional outcomes, ensuring greater self-reliance, and increasing the overall income of farmers through crop diversification.
Majhi underscored the crucial role of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) and Large Area Multi-Purpose Societies (LAMPS) in the agricultural ecosystem. He noted that the state has established 1,542 new societies, each receiving a capital support of Rs 5 lakh. This expansion brings the total number of such societies across Odisha to 4,253.
Reaffirming his administration's commitment to farmer welfare, the Chief Minister assured that paddy procurement would commence in all districts by January 10. He provided context by mentioning that last year, 20 lakh farmers received Rs 7,000 crore in input assistance, a figure that is anticipated to rise in the current year.
Connecting various welfare schemes, Majhi pointed out that a majority of beneficiaries under the Subhadra Yojana hail from farming families. These families also receive support from central and state schemes like PM-Kisan and CM-Kisan, along with scholarships for students. He estimated that this combined support adds approximately Rs 60,000 to the annual income of farm households, providing a much-needed financial cushion.
