Bhubaneswar, April 1: Odisha government has transferred Rs 693.94 crore to accounts of around 34 lakh farmers under the Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) scheme.

Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik said that farmers have played an important role in economy of during Covid-19 pandemic. “I am proud of farmers and it’s heartening to note that KALIA is having an impact in the lives of 37 lakh farmers in the state as well as 17 lakh landless poor. KALIA scheme is the only scheme in the entire country which also helps landless poor along with farmers,” said Patnaik.

The CM further said that he will continue to fight for the rights of the farmers. “I have always been with the farmers and will continue to fight for their rights. We will continue to demand implementation of recommendation of MS Swaminathan Committee,” he added.

The Odisha government has spent Rs 6,690 crore under the scheme in the last three years.