Bhubaneswar, April 20 (NationPress) Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday announced the distribution of financial aid amounting to Rs 838.48 crore to 41,68,582 farmers as part of the CM-KISAN scheme, coinciding with the celebrations of Akshaya Tritiya and State Farmers' Day.

During a significant event at the Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI) in Cuttack, the Chief Minister introduced various substantial initiatives aimed at benefitting farmers. Following the Bhoomi Puja ceremony for agricultural land adjacent to CRRI, Majhi formally commenced the ‘Akhi Muthi Anukula’ (traditional paddy sowing ceremony). He also toured an agricultural exhibition and launched the ‘Ama Bihana Ratha’ (mobile seed distribution units) and ‘Krushi Ratha’.

To guarantee the accessibility of quality seeds, Majhi inaugurated the “Ama Bihana Ratha” program, with the first phase targeting 31 blocks in 10 districts. New paddy seed varieties will be made available in 5 kg packets at the gram panchayat level.

Wishing everyone a prosperous Akshaya Tritiya, the Chief Minister emphasized that agriculture forms the bedrock of Odisha’s economy, culture, and prosperity.

“Agriculture is the cornerstone of our economy. The advancement of our state hinges on the growth of agriculture and farmers. The enhancement of agriculture, industry, and other sectors will foster all-around progress and help achieve our government’s vision of a ‘Samruddha Odisha’,” Majhi stated.

He regarded ‘Akhi Muthi Anukula’ as a treasured cultural tradition of the state, signifying the commencement of the new farming season with the ceremonial sowing of paddy.

For the 2026 Kharif season, financial support of approximately Rs 838.48 crore has been allocated to 41,68,582 farmers under the CM-KISAN scheme via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

Majhi underscored that economically empowering farmers is a primary focus of the government, and the scheme embodies this commitment. Among the beneficiaries, 41,24,241 are classified as small and marginal farmers, 41,049 belong to landless farmer households, and 3,292 are from tribal farming families.

He mentioned that within 22 months of the new government’s tenure, the agricultural growth rate in the state has reached 5.3 percent, exceeding the national average. This year, Odisha has achieved an all-time high food grain production of over 150 lakh metric tonnes.

To ensure fair compensation for farmers, the state government is purchasing paddy at Rs 3,100 per quintal. During the 2025–26 Kharif season, 76.47 lakh metric tonnes of paddy have been procured from 18,55,661 farmers.

An amount of Rs 5,589.98 crore has been allocated for input assistance. The Chief Minister asserted that farmers are the driving force behind building a prosperous Odisha and assured ongoing support to enhance agriculture’s profitability, modernization, and empowerment.

He added that with collaborative efforts from both the Centre and the state government, development in Odisha has gained momentum. There is a special emphasis on quality seeds, effective irrigation, and improved market linkages to boost farmers’ income.