THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, APRIL 20, 2026
“Farmers are the driving force behind a
prosperous Odisha, and our government is committed to strengthening their
future with timely support and modern initiatives,” said Chief Minister Mohan
Charan Majhi while addressing a state-level programme marking Akshaya Tritiya
and Farmers’ Day.
The Chief Minister participated
in the traditional Akhi Muthi Anukula
ritual at Central Rice Research Institute in Cuttack, symbolising the beginning
of the new agricultural season, before unveiling a series of measures aimed at
boosting the rural economy.
A major highlight was the
transfer of ₹838.48 crore to more than 41.68 lakh
farmers under the CM-Kisan scheme through direct benefit transfer (DBT). The
beneficiaries include small and marginal farmers, landless agricultural
workers, and tribal farmers,
ensuring wider coverage and faster delivery of assistance.
The government also introduced
Ama Bihan Rath, a mobile seed distribution service designed to supply
certified, high-quality seeds directly to farmers’ doorsteps. In its first
phase, the initiative will cover 31 blocks across 10 districts, reducing the need
for farmers to travel long distances for inputs.
Emphasising sustainable
agriculture, the Chief Minister outlined plans to promote millet cultivation
and organic farming through dedicated programmes such as the Balabhadra Jaibik Chasa Mission and the Sri Anna Abhiyan, aiming to revive
traditional crops and improve farmers’ income.
Odisha has recorded steady
progress in agriculture, with a growth rate of 5.3 per cent, surpassing the
national average. Foodgrain production has crossed 150 lakh metric tonnes,
while paddy procurement continues at ₹3,100 per quintal under the minimum
support price system. In the 2025–26 kharif season, over 76 lakh metric tonnes
of paddy were procured from more than 18.5 lakh farmers.
The government is also
investing in the future of farming families through the Krushi Vidyanidhi
Scholarship Scheme, under which over 68,000 students have received financial
support exceeding ₹291 crore for higher education.
Deputy Chief Minister Kanak
Vardhan Singh Deo advised farmers to purchase fertilisers from authorised
sources using proper verification methods to ensure quality and accountability.
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 present on the occasion.
