Odisha aims to produce 96 lakh tones of foodgrains this kharif season

Sambad English Bureau Published On : Jun 9, 2020 at 8:13 PM Updated On : Jun 10, 2020 at 8:37 AM

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government is targeting to cultivate around 62 lakh hectares of farmland in the State and get an output of 96 lakh tonnes foodgrain this kharif season.

Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment Department Principal Secretary Saurabh Garg said as more than 60% of Odisha’s population depends on agriculture sector, the State government is giving priority to farming. The State government is targeting to produce maximum quantity of paddy apart from giving priorities to vegetables, pulses and spices.

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Field level extension officers will be available at panchayat level once in a week on Monday to resolve the issues of farmers. Apart from this, the State government has launched 24X7 toll free number (18001025166) so that farmers can get their issues resolved.

Garg added senior district nodal officer have also been appointed to address agriculture issues.

The State government is targeting to cover 10 lakh farmers under the Fasal Bima Yojana.

He further informed the State’s millet mission is on in 43,000 hectares agricultural land in 78 blocks.

Earlier the CM had announced Rs 200 crore package for agriculture sector to benefit 25 lakh farmers in the State.

Cooperation Department Secretary Vir Vikram Yadav said the State government provided loan for kharif crops since April 25 and Rs 2600 crore has been provided till May 31, 2020. As many as 6.19 lakh farmers have received loan so far, he added.