Odisha CM Majhi announces 5kg free rice for 11 districts for 3 months

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday announced a major welfare initiative to provide free rice to more than 27 lakh families in 11 districts, alongside a broader jobs and development roadmap, during his 79th Independence Day speech at PMG Square in Bhubaneswar.

Under the Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, each eligible family in eight KBK districts, including Boudh, Gajapati, and Kandhamal, will receive 5 kg of free rice per month for three months.

The CM informed that this will cover a total distribution of 41,082 metric tonnes for Rs 180 crore, which will be burdened entirely by the state’s own funds.

The announcement follows a July decision to suspend ration distribution to 20.58 lakh beneficiaries who have not completed the mandatory e-KYC for their ration cards.

Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushnachandra Patra had then said that beneficiaries have three months to complete the process or face permanent cancellation, though late compliance will restore eligibility.

To address connectivity gaps, the state has deployed mobile network boosters in remote areas, and children above five years are now being included under ration card coverage.

Jobs And Healthcare Push

In his address, Majhi said the state government has already filled 28,392 government posts since his administration took office, with recruitment underway for 34,500 more and approvals expected soon for 22,896. He projected Odisha would exceed its two-year hiring target of 65,000 posts, potentially reaching 85,000.

On healthcare, Odisha has merged central and state coverage under Ayushman Bharat, Gopabandhu Jana Arogya Yojana, and Ayushman Bayo Bandana for citizens over 70, achieving 82% coverage, stated CM Majhi.