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Key Points

The BJD has launched sharp attacks on the BJP government over its handling of farmer issues in Odisha. Party leaders highlighted drastic budget cuts and policy changes hurting agricultural growth. They announced statewide protests starting with a major gathering in Bargarh on August 18. The opposition claims farmers face distress sales due to delayed procurement and unseasonal rains.

Key Points: BJD Slams BJP Over Odisha Farmer Neglect Announces Statewide Protests

  • BJD cites 50% drop in Odisha's agriculture growth rate
  • Accuses BJP of slashing PMKSY funds by 78%
  • Protests planned over delayed paddy payments
  • New legal heir rule called anti-farmer policy
2 min read

Odisha: BJD criticises BJP govt for ignoring farmers' interests, announces statewide protests

BJD accuses BJP of ignoring Odisha farmers, cites budget cuts and delayed paddy procurement while announcing statewide 'Krushak Samabesh' protests.

"Farmers are being forced into distress sales as FCI is not lifting paddy in time – BJD leaders"

Bhubaneswar, Aug 8

The opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Friday sharply criticised the state government, accusing it of showing complete neglect toward the agriculture sector over the past year.

Addressing a press conference on Friday, BJD leaders alleged that none of the promises made to farmers have been fulfilled. They accused the government of acting against the interests of the farming community.

The party claimed that the growth rate of the agriculture sector has sharply declined - from 7.6 per cent in 2023-24 to 3.8 per cent in 2024-25. They also criticised the significant budget cuts by the Central government, stating that the allocation to Odisha for the agriculture sector has been slashed from Rs 21,011 crore in 2023-24 to Rs 17,089 crore in 2024-25.

In particular, the BJD raised alarm over the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY), noting that Odisha received Rs 146 crore under the scheme in 2023-24, which has now been drastically reduced to Rs 32 crore in 2024-25.

The party also highlighted the growing distress among farmers over issues related to paddy procurement.

According to BJD leaders, the government’s new registration policy now demands legal heir certificates from farmers - a move they claim is aimed at reducing the burden of the additional Rs 800 per quintal support currently being provided.

"Farmers are being forced into distress sales as the Food Corporation of India (FCI) is not lifting the paddy in time. Unseasonal rains have further worsened the situation, and payments are getting delayed beyond the promised 48-hour window,” the party alleged.

To intensify its agitation, the BJD announced that it will organise ‘Krushak Samabesh’ (farmers' gathering) across various districts.

The first such protest will be held in Bargarh on August 18, where farmer leaders and cultivators will come together to protest against the government's policies.

The party affirmed that it will continue to raise farmers' issues until corrective action is taken by the government.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As an agriculture researcher, I'm concerned about the growth rate decline from 7.6% to 3.8%. Odisha was making good progress in sustainable farming. These policy changes could push farmers back into debt cycles. Need more focus on long-term solutions.
P
Priya S
My uncle is a farmer in Bargarh. The new rules for legal heir certificates are creating so much trouble! Many small farmers don't have proper documents. Why make life harder for those who feed us? 😠
A
Aditya G
While I support farmers' rights, BJD shouldn't politicize this issue. They ruled for 20+ years - why didn't they solve these problems then? Both parties need to work together for farmer welfare instead of blame games.
K
Kavya N
The delayed payments and FCI issues are heartbreaking. Farmers wait months while politicians get salaries on time. When will our annadata get the respect they deserve? #SupportFarmers
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Michael C
The numbers speak for themselves - budget cuts from ₹21,011 crore to ₹17,089 crore is massive. In a state where 60% depend on agriculture, this is economic sabotage. Hope the protests bring real change.

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