Odisha CM Naveen releases cash benefits under KALIA scheme

Puri: Chief Minister Naveen today released financial assistance to around 12.45 lakh farmers in the first-phase of the much-hyped Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) scheme.

“I release the funds for 12 lakh farmers of the State. With the blessings of Lord Jagannath, I start the KALIA Yatra from Puri today and it cannot be stopped by anybody,” said Naveen while releasing the benefits.

Highlighting that Kalia scheme will be a milestone in Odisha’s economic development, Naveen stated that “The scheme will boost agriculture and improve the condition of the farmers. Kalia will be a torchbearer for the entire nation.”

On the other hand, political experts and intellectuals believe that Kalia scheme may make or break BJD’s prospects in 2019 elections as the implementation of the scheme will pose a challenge for the ruling party.

“Kalia scheme is an ambitious scheme but its proper implementation is necessary,” said senior journalist and politics expert, Prasanna Mohanty while questioning "What hindered Naveen-government for 18 long years from thinking about the farmers of Odisha."