The State Government on Wednesday urged the Centre to enhance the quantum of assistance given for farmers against crop loss as per the SDRF and NDRF norms by 50 per cent.
In a letter, Chief Secretary AP Padhi apprised Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba that some districts are facing drought situation and pest attacks on crops and, therefore, the Centre should enhance fund provisions by making necessary amendment to the existing SDRF/NDRF norms.
He apprised that the State Government has already initiated various measures to deal with the problems by implementing a package but more funds are needed to compensate the crops.
As per the existing SDRF and NDRF norms, farmers are eligible to get agriculture input subsidy of Rs 6,800 per hectare for rainfed areas and Rs 13,500 per hectare for areas under assured irrigation which is quite low compared to the loss incurred by them, Padhi pointed out.
“Therefore, the agriculture input subsidy for the affected farmers may be enhanced at least by 50 per cent. The minimum assistance to farmers may be fixed at Rs 2,000 for rainfed areas and Rs 3,000 for irrigated areas,” Padhi wrote in the letter.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik reviewed the untimely rain situation and directed officials to keep vigil on its impact on standing crops. He directed to send field officials to affected areas.
It was revealed that untimely rain situation has not created any alarming situation in the State.
The Chief Minister directed officials to distribute drought assistance among affected farmers on time and take advance measures for the Rabi season. Agriculture and Farmers’ Empower Minister Dr Damodar Rout, Cooperation Minister Surjya Narayan Patro were present, among others.