Odisha CM Announces Rs 800 Subsidy per Quintal to Aid Paddy Farmers at Cooperative Week 2024

Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a landmark decision on Tuesday to support paddy farmers across the state with an additional input subsidy of Rs 800 per quintal. The announcement was made at the ‘All India Cooperative Week 2024’ event in Bhubaneswar, highlighting the state’s commitment to bolstering the agricultural sector and uplifting the livelihoods of its farmers. 

In his address, CM Majhi reiterated his government’s dedication to Odisha’s farming community, aiming to address the long-standing issues they face and offering meaningful support through direct financial assistance. The subsidy initiative, a vital part of his administration's agricultural reform agenda, promises to provide timely aid to thousands of paddy farmers across Odisha. 

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A Response to Unfulfilled Promises of the Past 

Chief Minister Majhi took the opportunity to contrast his administration's proactive approach with previous promises left unmet by the former BJD government. He pointed out that the previous administration had pledged a Rs 100 per quintal bonus over the minimum support price (MSP) to the paddy farmers in the Sohela region. 

"Our farmers were let down by unkept promises," he said, emphasizing his commitment to reversing this trend. "Unlike the previous government, we will ensure that financial support reaches our farmers when they need it most." 

Direct Benefit Transfer to Ensure Transparency 

Highlighting the transparency of his government’s approach, CM Majhi announced that the Rs 800 per quintal subsidy will be transferred directly to farmers' bank accounts. The Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism is designed to eliminate any intermediaries, thus preventing delays and ensuring that funds reach the intended beneficiaries in a timely and efficient manner. According to officials, the transfer will be completed within the upcoming agricultural cycle, ensuring that farmers benefit from the subsidy as they prepare for the next planting season. 

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Boosting Agricultural Productivity and Financial Stability 

This additional input subsidy forms part of the broader mission of the Odisha government to strengthen agricultural productivity while enhancing farmers' financial stability. The CM noted that this move is also aimed at encouraging farmers to adopt better farming practices and increase crop yields. 

"We hope to empower our farmers to invest in high-quality seeds, fertilizers, and equipment, all of which are essential for achieving sustainable growth in agriculture, with this subsidy" CM said. 

Celebrating Cooperative Week with Farmers’ Welfare at Heart 

The ‘All India Cooperative Week’ event, an annual celebration of cooperative movements and achievements, provided an ideal platform for this significant policy announcement. The Chief Minister expressed gratitude for the role of cooperatives in Odisha’s rural economy, acknowledging their efforts in providing affordable credit, training, and marketing support to the farming community. 

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“The cooperative movement has been a backbone for our rural farmer. We are reinforcing our commitment to our farmers, who are the true strength of Odisha through this subsidy" he added. 

Farmers Welcome the Announcement 

The announcement was met with enthusiasm by farmers and agricultural stakeholders present at the event. Many farmers expressed hope that the additional subsidy will ease their financial burden and provide much-needed relief, especially amidst rising input costs. 

“The government’s initiative will help us reinvest in our fields and improve our yields. It’s a promising start, and we are grateful for this support,” said one of the attending farmers from Sambalpur district. 

Future Plans for Odisha’s Agricultural Sector 

To further support the state’s agricultural sector, CM Majhi also outlined plans to expand irrigation facilities, introduce more farmer-friendly policies, and encourage the use of modern agricultural technologies. 

"Our government is here to serve the farming community by making every effort to build a resilient agricultural ecosystem. This Rs 800 input subsidy is just one step toward our larger goal of a self-sufficient and prosperous Odisha," he emphasized. 

The Odisha government’s decision to implement an Rs 800 input subsidy per quintal for paddy farmers marks a critical step toward ensuring farmers’ welfare and enhancing agricultural productivity. As farmers prepare for the next planting season, the timely financial support and transparent approach promised by CM Majhi’s administration bring renewed hope and optimism to the paddy-growing community in Odisha.