Detailed Overview of the Samruddha Krushak Yojana: Dy CM Singh Deo’s Discussion with Senior Officials

ByDhruv Sharma

The Samruddha Krushak Yojana, a significant agricultural initiative in Odisha, was the focal point of an intensive discussion led by Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singhdeo on Friday. Held at the Lok Seva Bhavan’s conference hall, the meeting brought together senior officials to strategize the scheme’s implementation and ensure its success for the benefit of Odisha’s farmers.

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Key Highlights of the Discussion

1. Procurement of Rabi and Kharif Paddy

Deputy Chief Minister Singhdeo emphasized the importance of efficient procurement of Rabi and Kharif paddy through the Paddy Procurement Automation System (P-PAS). The system is designed to streamline procurement processes and enhance transparency. Key points included:

  • Token Distribution: Singhdeo stressed the need for timely distribution of tokens to eligible farmers. These tokens enable farmers to sell their produce at designated mandis (markets).
  • Maintenance Work: The Deputy Chief Minister urged officials to expedite maintenance work to ensure smooth operations at procurement centers.

2. Minimum Support Price and Farmer Verification

A critical aspect of the discussion was ensuring farmers receive the government-fixed minimum support price (MSP) of Rs 3,100 per quintal. Singhdeo highlighted the importance of:

  • Aadhar-Linked Verification: Before issuing payments, farmers’ details will be verified using their Aadhar information to ensure eligibility.
  • Certification for Mills: Rice mills will receive certificates verifying their stock and capacity. These certificates will be cross-checked against bills, and rebates will be provided on electricity bills based on accurate reporting.

3. Token Renewal and Validity

To accommodate farmers better, Singhdeo proposed that the tokens for paddy sales be renewable, with an increase in their validity period. This change aims to provide more flexibility and convenience for farmers in planning their sales.

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4. Budget Allocation and Achievements

The state government has allocated Rs 5,000 crore to the Samruddha Krushak Yojana in this year’s budget. So far, the initiative has seen significant participation:

  • Farmer Participation: 8.56 lakh farmers have already sold their produce through mandis under the scheme.
  • Support for Seed Suppliers: Farmer agencies supplying seeds will receive assistance of Rs 800 per quintal based on the quantity supplied, encouraging quality seed distribution.

5. Use of Technology for Efficiency

Technology plays a crucial role in the scheme’s implementation:

  • SMS-Based Token Distribution: Eligible farmers may receive tokens via SMS, ensuring timely and accessible distribution.
  • Digital Payments: Full payment for paddy sales will be processed online within 24 to 48 hours, promoting financial transparency and reducing delays.
  • Digital Crop Surveys: These surveys help prevent crop loss and curb dishonest practices, ensuring that only genuine losses are compensated.
  • Satellite Surveys: The P-PAS system will be surveyed via satellite, further enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of the procurement process.

6. Registration and Support Centers

Various organizations will function as registration and support centers for farmers, including:

  • PAC ACS (Primary Agriculture Cooperative Societies)
  • LAMPS (Large Area Multi-Purpose Cooperative Societies)
  • WSHG (Women Self-Help Groups)
  • Pani Panchayats: These centers will assist farmers with registration and provide necessary guidance and support.

Attendance and Participation

The meeting was attended by key officials, including Principal Secretary Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare VV Yadav, Principal Secretary Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Commissioner cum Secretary Rajesh Prabhakar Patil, Director of Agriculture and Food Production Prem Chandra Chaudhary, and other senior officials. Their presence highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring the scheme’s success.

FAQs

1. What is the Samruddha Krushak Yojana?

The Samruddha Krushak Yojana is an agricultural initiative by the Odisha government aimed at improving the procurement process for paddy and providing financial support to farmers through a minimum support price and other benefits.

2. How does the token system work?

Tokens are issued to eligible farmers, allowing them to sell their produce at designated mandis. The token system ensures that all eligible farmers can participate in the procurement process efficiently.

3. What is the minimum support price for paddy?

The government has set a minimum support price of Rs 3,100 per quintal for paddy, ensuring that farmers receive fair compensation for their produce.

4. How are payments processed under the scheme?

Payments are made online within 24 to 48 hours of selling paddy at the mandis, ensuring prompt and transparent financial transactions for farmers.

5. What technological measures are in place to support the scheme?

The scheme utilizes digital crop surveys, SMS-based token distribution, and satellite surveys to enhance efficiency, prevent crop loss, and ensure accurate data collection.

Conclusion

The Samruddha Krushak Yojana represents a significant effort by the Odisha government to support and empower farmers. By ensuring fair prices, leveraging technology, and facilitating efficient procurement processes, the scheme aims to enhance agricultural productivity and farmer welfare in the state. The detailed discussions led by Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singhdeo highlight the government’s commitment to making this initiative a success, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of the agricultural sector in Odisha.