The ruling BJD would stage a dharna in front of the Raj Bhavan here on Wednesday in protest against the alleged Central negligence towards the State in the agriculture sector.
Party spokesperson Pratap Keshari Deb announced this at a Press conference here on Monday.
Agriculture Minister Pradeep Maharathy said, “The Narendra Modi Government has been neglecting Odisha in providing various supports to the State. Though the State Government demanded to increase the MSP (minimum support price) of paddy to Rs 2,500 per quintal, the Centre has increased it from Rs 1,410 to Rs 1,470 only. Similarly, the Centre has sanctioned Rs 815 crore against the State’s demand of Rs 2.344.99 crore to meet drought. Besides, it has slashed the Central share in many farm schemes from 100 per cent to 60 per cent. However, it has been extending funds support to the BJP-ruled States in free hand. The BJD will continue opposing the Centre’s negligence.”
Among others, Biju Yuva Janata Dal president and Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Sanjay Dasburam and Biju Mahila Janata Dal president and MlA Pramila Mallick were present at the Press meet.