By Bizodisha Bureau, Bhubaneswar, January 5, 2025: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday announced financial assistance package of around Rs 291 Crore to support the farmers in Odisha affected by recent unseasonal rains. The adverse weather impacted over 6,66,000 farmers across the State leading to significant agricultural losses, the CM said.

For the first time in Odisha’s political history, the Government has classified unseasonal rain as a natural calamity. This declaration is intended to expedite aid to those in the agricultural sector struggling with adverse conditions.

The CM emphasised his government’s commitment to improving irrigation facilities. This improvement forms part of a broader strategy to mitigate the challenges faced by farmers in the State due to inadequate water supply.

CM Majhi criticised the previous government for failing to achieve the expected advancements in agriculture over the past 24 years. As both Chief Minister and Water Resource Minister, he highlighted collaborative efforts among the government departments to develop optimal farming practices aligning with adverse climatic conditions.

While speaking to media persons, the CM said, “Excessive damages due to recent unseasonal rain were caused in at least 16 districts, including the coastal ones.

“We have received the damage assessment reports from all affected districts. More than 6,66,000 farmers across the State have been affected and a total of around Rs 291 Crore will be disbursed to them towards the compensation,” the CM asserted.

“The process has already begun and compensation money will be disbursed through the District Collectors concerned. Every affected farmer will get compensation,” the CM declared.