Odisha CM Kisan Scheme Funds Credited to Farmers’ Accounts: A Boost for Agricultural Welfare
By [Harish], [30/04/2025]
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ToggleBHUBANESWAR: In a significant move to bolster farmer welfare, the Odisha government today credited financial assistance under the KALIA-CM KISAN (Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation) scheme to the bank accounts of over 30 lakh farmers across the state. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik announced the disbursement, emphasizing his government’s commitment to supporting agriculture, the backbone of Odisha’s economy.
Key Features of the KALIA- CM KISAN Scheme
Launched in 2018, KALIA is Odisha’s flagship initiative to provide financial aid to small and marginal farmers, landless agricultural households, and vulnerable cultivators. The scheme aims to:
- Enhance Crop Productivity: Offer ₹10,000 per year (in two installments) for crop cultivation.
- Livelihood Support: Provide ₹12,500 to landless households for income-generating activities like poultry or fisheries.
- Vulnerable Support: Extend one-time grants of ₹10,000 to disabled or elderly farmers.
Today’s Disbursement Highlights
- Amount Credited: ₹1,000 crore disbursed as the first installment of 2024.
- Beneficiaries: Over 50 lakh farmers received ₹2,000 each directly into their Aadhaar-linked accounts.
- Scope: Covers 30 districts, prioritizing small/marginal farmers and vulnerable groups.
CM Patnaik stated, “Farmers are the soul of Odisha. This assistance will empower them to invest in seeds, fertilizers, and modern farming techniques, ensuring food security and prosperity.”
Transparency Through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
The Odisha government leveraged the DBT system to ensure timely, leak-proof delivery. Farmers registered via the CM KISAN portal or Common Service Centers (CSCs) were validated through Aadhaar authentication. Grievance redressal mechanisms were also activated to address discrepancies.
Impact on Farmers and Agriculture
- Immediate Relief: Funds arrive ahead of the kharif season, aiding preparations for monsoon sowing.
- Economic Ripple Effect: Increased rural spending boosts local markets and agri-input industries.
- Reduced Debt Burden: Farmers relying on high-interest loans can offset initial costs.
“This money is a lifeline. I’ll buy quality seeds and repair my irrigation pump,” said Sarojini Mohanty, a farmer from Cuttack.
Challenges and Criticisms
While the scheme has garnered praise, challenges persist:
- Inclusion Errors: Some eligible farmers report exclusion due to outdated land records.
- Awareness Gaps: Remote communities remain unaware of registration processes.
- Sustainability: Critics urge long-term solutions like MSP reforms and irrigation upgrades.
Looking Ahead
The state plans to integrate KALIA with central schemes like PM-KISAN for broader coverage. Additionally, initiatives like soil health cards and crop insurance are being prioritized to build climate resilience.
Conclusion
Today’s disbursement underscores Odisha’s proactive approach to agrarian welfare. By addressing immediate financial needs while investing in long-term infrastructure, the government aims to transform rural livelihoods. As CM Patnaik remarked, “Empowering farmers is not just policy—it’s our duty to those who feed the nation.”
For updates, farmers can visit the official KALIA portal (https://kalia.odisha.gov.in) or dial the helpline at 155333.
Note: This article is based on recent announcements and scheme guidelines. Figures may be updated as official data is released.