Berhampur: Ahead of the crucial general elections, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today inaugurated and laid foundation stone for several projects worth Rs 1011 crore during a farmers’ convention (Krushaksamabesh) held in Ganjam district today.
Besides laying foundation stone, Patnaik distributed agricultural equipment and financial assistance to the beneficiaries under the recently launched KALIA scheme at the convention held at Rangeilunda airstrip ground.
Elaborate security arrangements were made by the district administration for the chief minister's visit.
Earlier, on January 25, the CM had released financial assistance to around 12.45 lakh farmers during the launch of the first-phase of KALIA scheme.
“The scheme will boost agriculture and improve the condition of the farmers. KALIA will be a torchbearer for the entire nation,” Patnaik had said.
Minister Bikram Keshari Arukha, said "The loan-waiver scheme will make the State's economy bankrupt but KALIA scheme is progressive which will directly benefit the farmers. All section of farmers will directly receive the compensation in their accounts and will be empowered."