In a significant move to bolster the state’s agricultural sector, CM Mohan Majhi has presented a comprehensive budget focusing on rural livelihoods and irrigation for fy25-26
OdishaPlus Bureau
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has officially unveiled a substantial state budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, totaling an impressive Rs 2.90 lakh crore. This budget places a strong emphasis on agriculture and irrigation, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing the livelihoods of the state’s predominantly rural population.
Majhi pointed out that nearly 48 percent of Odisha’s workforce is engaged in agriculture, with a significant 80 percent of the population living in rural areas, underscoring the critical importance of these sectors to the state’s economy and social fabric.
As the finance minister, Majhi announced a dedicated allocation of Rs 37,838 crore for agricultural and allied sectors within the budget. This allocation represents a notable increase of nearly 12 percent compared to previous fiscal provisions, signaling the government’s intent to bolster agricultural productivity and support farmers.
During his address to the assembly, he elaborated on specific initiatives included in the budget, such as Rs 2,020 crore earmarked for the ‘CM Kisan Yojana,’ which aims to provide direct benefits to farmers, and Rs 600 crore allocated for the ‘Shree Anna Abhiyan,’ a program designed to promote millet cultivation, thereby diversifying crop production and enhancing food security.
In addition to these allocations, Majhi proposed several new initiatives aimed at improving irrigation facilities across the state, recognizing that effective water management is crucial for agricultural success. To further support the agricultural sector, he allocated Rs 164 crore under the ‘Mukhyamantri Kamdhenu Yojana,’ which is focused on boosting milk production and improving the livelihoods of dairy farmers.
This budget is particularly significant as it marks the first comprehensive financial plan presented by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government since it took power in Odisha last year. Before this, Majhi had presented an interim budget of Rs 2.65 lakh crore for the 2024-25 fiscal year in July. The current budget reflects the government’s strategic priorities and its commitment to fostering agricultural development, enhancing rural livelihoods, and ensuring sustainable growth in the state.
