Bhubaneswar: Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee chief Niranjan Patnaik today met Daitari Naik, the man who was recently in news for carving out a 3-km long canal from a mountain stream to water his fields.
Patnaik today took to twitter and shared the news stating that he called on Naik and his family at the Baitarni village in Banspal block of the district.
While lauding Naik for his efforts, Patnaik stated “The courage and determination of Shri Datatrai Naik is commendable. He was able to accomplish this feat without receiving a single penny from the Govt. I came to knwo about his achievement from the media
However, the OPCC chief criticised the State Government for its incompetence towards meeting the needs of farmers. "While the incompetent BJD is enjoying fruits of power since 18 years, Naik and his family members worked hard day and night for years to bring much-needed water to their village," he tweeted adding that the State needs government needs to match the commitment of Naik.
The 70 year old farmer had single-handedly carved out a three kilometer canal from the Gonasika mountains so that the water stream could irrigate the parched land below. But even as the canal is ready, villagers wish that the structure could be given a concrete lining to ensure a smooth flow of water
It took nearly four years for Naik and his family to dig the canal with just hoe and digging bar.