BJD Slams Govt Over Agriculture Neglect, Plans Protests

Bhubaneswar: The opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Friday launched a scathing attack on the state government, alleging complete neglect of the agriculture sector over the past year and failure to fulfil promises made to farmers.

Addressing a press conference, BJD leaders claimed that the agriculture sector’s growth rate has plunged from 7.6% in 2023–24 to 3.8% in 2024–25. They also criticised the Centre for slashing Odisha’s agriculture allocation from ₹21,011 crore in 2023–24 to ₹17,089 crore in 2024–25.

Particular concern was raised over the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY), with funding to the state dropping sharply from ₹146 crore last year to ₹32 crore this year.

The BJD further accused the government of introducing a new paddy procurement registration policy requiring farmers to produce legal heir certificates, alleging it was aimed at reducing the burden of the additional ₹800 per quintal support price. Delays in paddy lifting by the Food Corporation of India (FCI), unseasonal rains, and payment delays beyond the promised 48 hours were also cited as major concerns.

Announcing plans to intensify its agitation, the BJD said it will organise ‘Krushak Samabesh’ (farmers’ gatherings) across various districts, starting with a protest in Bargarh on August 18. The party pledged to continue raising farmers’ issues until corrective action is taken.