CM Majhi Thanks PM Modi, Union Agri Minister for Extending Crop Loss Reporting Deadline

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan for extending the deadline for farmers to report crop losses by three days. Farmers can now file their crop loss reports with insurance companies until January 1, 2025.

Majhi, during his visits to Nayagarh, Gajapati, and Ganjam districts to assess the damage caused by unseasonal rains, interacted with farmers and noted significant losses to crops such as paddy and vegetables. The Chief Minister assured that the Odisha government is committed to assisting all affected farmers, whether insured or uninsured.

Initially, December 29 was set as the last date for insured farmers to report crop losses. However, the Odisha government requested an extension from the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, which was promptly approved.

Expressing appreciation for the Union government’s support, Majhi highlighted the importance of this extension in alleviating the hardships faced by farmers. “The sympathetic approach of the Prime Minister and Union Agriculture Minister is a great relief for our farmers,” Majhi said.

Accompanied by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, the Chief Minister directed District Collectors to re-evaluate crop loss data and submit accurate reports by December 30. Assistance will be provided based on precise damage assessments.

Unseasonal rains since November 20 have wreaked havoc across several districts in Odisha, damaging vast tracts of farmland. In Nayagarh district, 6,350 hectares of crops have been reported damaged. In Gajapati district, 2,128 hectares of farmland and 121 hectares of unharvested paddy were affected. Ganjam district witnessed severe damage, with 37,800 hectares of Kharif crops and 822 hectares of vegetables affected, impacting over 61,540 farmers.

During his visits, Majhi personally surveyed the damage and urged farmers to apply for compensation through Tehsildars, Revenue Inspectors, or District Agriculture Officers. Applications can also be submitted via the toll-free number 14447 or the Krishi Rakshak portal.

Majhi assured that compensation would be extended to all categories of farmers, including those cultivating rice, vegetables, and uninsured crops. “Our government stands firmly with the farmers, and we will ensure they receive the necessary support to recover from these losses,” Majhi said.