Bhubaneswar, Nov 15 : Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday announced Input Assistance of about Rs 200 crore for the distressed farmers of the drought affected areas of the state.

The entire expenditure, Patnaik said, will be borne by the State Government.

As per reports, about 2,63560 hectares of crop land in 64 blocks and 15 ULBs of 12 districts
have suffered crop loss of 33 percent and above.

So far, many of the affected farmers have not yet received their Crop Insurance dues despite continuous follow up and pursuance by the state Government with the technical advisory
committee under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India.

Considering the gravity of the situation, demands of the affected farmers and crop loss reports
by the Collectors, the Chief Minister has decided to provide assistance out of the State’s own
resources.

The Collectors of the affected districts have been directed to submit the requirement of funds to
the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) so that appropriate steps will be taken for immediate disbursement of assistance.

It is estimated that about Rs 200 crore will be disbursed to overcome the distress of the farmers.