Congress, BJD take swipe at Odisha govt over delayed crop loss assessment, BJP responds

The leader of the Congress Legislative Party, Ramachandra Kadam, on Sunday, voiced strong criticism against Chief Minister Mohan Majhi and his team for their delayed district visits intended to evaluate the extent of agricultural loss caused by the unseasonal rains. 

The state government had pledged a swift evaluation of the destruction wrought by the persistent rainfall, yet it has been nine days without assessment of the extent of crop damage and a comprehensive list of affected farmers being compiled. The government must live up to its promises, stated Kadam, highlighting the mounting frustration among farmers waiting for recognition and support.

Kadam further demanded an all-party meeting to address the pressing concerns plaguing the farming community. 

Also Read: Odisha CM surveys rain-ravaged farmlands to assess crop damage 

“The unseasonal rains caused a huge damage to the paddy crops. The excess rainwater has discoloured the crops, rendering them not up to the FAQ. And the government should procure such crops. In such a situation, the government shouldn’t do politics and, instead, call an all-party meeting to address the situation,” said Kadam. 

Meanwhile, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Prashant Muduli implored the state authorities to ensure no affected farmer is overlooked in their surveys. Ignoring these recipients could only serve to escalate discontent, Muduli warned.

“What we want is that all farmers who have suffered a loss in paddy or Ravi crops should be compensated properly at the right time. And, the survey should also be carried out at the right time. However, the survey work has not been started in ground levels as yet. The farmers are waiting to see when the government will wake up. One thing is certain that the government would face farmers’ discontent in the coming days,” he said.   

Responding to the Congress and BJD leaders’ statements, Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra said, “All the affected farmers whether they have insured their crops or not will be compensated. I have already directed the officers to be liberal while preparing the report so that none should be excluded.”