Finance
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced on Tuesday a special Rs 1,000 crore relief package for flood-stricken parts of the state, where almost 9.40 lakh people have been affected by the recent bout of flooding.
Majhi announced the package after examining the flood conditions in Baleshwar, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Mayurbhanj, Kendujhar, and Kendrapada districts. He stated that the figure was based on a preliminary estimate, and that further cash will be released as needed until thorough damage assessments were received from the impacted regions.
“This Rs 1,000 crore package has been announced based on the preliminary estimation. Additional funds will be provided if required after receiving the detailed damage assessment from the flood-hit districts,” the chief minister told reporters.
The package focuses on agricultural recovery, restoration of irrigation infrastructure, assistance to people who have lost livelihoods and immediate relief for affected families.
Under the special package, small and marginal farmers suffering crop loss of 33 per cent or more will receive agricultural input subsidy of Rs 8,500 per hectare for non-irrigated land, Rs 17,000 per hectare for irrigated land and Rs 22,500 per hectare for perennial crops.
Financial assistance for purchasing paddy and non-paddy seeds will be transferred directly to eligible farmers through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Affected farmers will also receive free vegetable mini-kits, while a 75 per cent subsidy will be provided for post-flood disease and pest management.
The government has also ordered the rehabilitation and repair of damaged irrigation projects on a wartime basis. Livestock owners, fisherman, and farmers will receive aid with livestock losses as well as repairs to damaged boats, fishing nets, and ponds.
Farmers that take advantage of the opportunity will see their short-term Kharif agricultural loans changed into medium-term loans, providing additional financial help in the aftermath of crop losses.
The program also includes handicraft and handloom sectors. Artisans and laborers whose tools and equipment have been damaged will receive Rs 5,000, with an additional Rs 5,000 granted for the loss of raw materials or finished goods.
The government will begin temporary repairs to damaged roads and other infrastructure immediately. The chief minister stated that funds for long-term reconstruction will be granted following a thorough assessment of the damage.
Relief activities will continue in the impacted areas, with prepared food, dry food, and relief rice supplied until the situation stabilizes. Flood-affected families will also receive financial aid to buy basic clothing and utensils.
Majhi stated that the recent flooding was the second major spell to affect Odisha due to heavy rains. He urged officials to expand rescue, relief, and rehabilitation activities in afflicted areas and guarantee that all available help reaches distressed individuals.
