National
Growth of Agriculture and Allied Sectors in Odisha Estimated at 3.3%
Agriculture is a fundamental part of Odisha’s economy, providing livelihoods for over 60% of the population and employing 49% of the workforce. The report notes that this sector is expected to contribute around 18.9% to the state’s gross value added (GVA) in 2024-25, with a consistent growth rate of 3.3%, mirroring that of the entire country.
The structural changes in agriculture in recent years highlight the increasing contributions of livestock and fisheries to the overall agricultural GVA, as evidenced by their impressive growth rates. To bolster agricultural growth and enhance farmers’ income, the government has implemented several initiatives, including an input subsidy of INR 800 per quintal for paddy prices exceeding the minimum support price (MSP) of Rs 2,300, direct cash transfers for purchasing inputs, promoting crop diversification, launching a dedicated mission for cash crops, as well as comprehensive rice fallow management and infrastructure development.
Additionally, the government has rolled out various measures to support the livestock and fisheries sectors, such as the Mukhyamantri Kamdhenu Yojana (MKY) and Mukhyamantri Maschyajibi Kalyan Yojana (MMKY), aimed at boosting these sectors and diversifying farmers’ income sources. These strategic programs are intended not only to improve productivity and sustainability but also to promote long-term socio-economic development within the sector.
However, access to better market options remains a significant challenge for farmers in Odisha, largely due to small landholdings and limited marketable surplus. To address this issue, the government has launched initiatives to strengthen marketing infrastructure, such as modernizing mandis, developing cold storage facilities, and promoting exports. The establishment of a cold storage facility in each subdivision will empower farmers to store their produce securely and sell it when market conditions are most favorable, thus minimizing the pressure to sell during distress periods.
The creation of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) has been pivotal in enhancing market access, ensuring collective bargaining, and allowing farmers to capitalize on economies of scale. The government has also signed multiple memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with exporters to promote agricultural and horticultural exports.
To advance and diversify the agricultural sector, the state is actively encouraging crop diversification by promoting high-value crops such as pulses, oilseeds, and horticultural products. Furthermore, the government is advocating for climate-resilient farming practices, including the cultivation of millets through the Shree Anna Abhiyan, conserving traditional seed varieties, and fostering organic agriculture to mitigate the impacts of climate change and ensure sustainable productivity, as stated in the OES.
National
MoD Issues Warning About Fake WhatsApp Messages Requesting Donations for Indian Army Modernization
The fraudulent message claims that during a cabinet meeting, the Modi government decided to open a bank account for contributions towards the modernization of the Indian Army and for soldiers injured or martyred in conflict zones. It states, “Another great decision by the Modi government on superstar Akshay Kumar’s suggestion—just Rs 1 per day to support the Indian Army. Yesterday, the Modi government opened a bank account during a cabinet meeting for the Army and soldiers in war zones. Every Indian can donate any amount starting from Rs 1 to an unlimited sum. These funds will also be used to purchase weapons for the Army and paramilitary forces.”
Additionally, the message suggests that if 70% of India’s 1.3 billion population donates even one rupee daily, it would accumulate significant funds—transforming into 100 crores in a day, 3,000 crores in a month, and 36,000 crores in a year. It emphasizes that Pakistan’s annual defense budget doesn’t even reach Rs 36,000 crore and encourages citizens to contribute for the country’s ambition to become a superpower.
In response, the Ministry of Defence has clarified that the account details provided in the message are incorrect, resulting in failed online donations. “Individuals should be vigilant and avoid falling victim to such scams. The government has launched numerous welfare schemes for soldiers who are killed or disabled in active duty,” the statement asserted.
The Ministry highlighted the establishment of the ‘Armed Forces Battle Casualty Welfare Fund (AFBCWF)’ in 2020, which provides immediate financial assistance to the families of soldiers who lose their lives or suffer severe injuries during military operations. The Indian Army, under the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare, manages the fund’s accounts. Contributions can be made directly to the Armed Forces Battle Casualties Welfare Fund, with correct bank account details provided in the official announcement.
The individual, a 40-year-old man from Jaipur, Rajasthan, was flagged by customs officers based on profiling measures. Following his arrival from Dubai on Friday, the necessary legal actions are being taken in accordance with Customs regulations.
The authorities intercepted him at the green channel exit.
Upon conducting an X-ray examination of his luggage, customs officials noticed suspicious images. Although the Door Frame Metal Detector (DFMD) did not signal any alerts for the passenger, a thorough inspection of his baggage led to the discovery of the gold bars.
In a recent reshuffle, several IAS officers were transferred, including Smitha Sabharwal, who served as the Secretary for Youth Advancement, Tourism, and Culture. She has been assigned to the Finance Commission just as the Miss World beauty pageant approaches, marking its first occurrence in the state.
Sabharwal reportedly faced backlash from the Chief Minister due to a Ghibli-style AI-generated image of bulldozers connected to the Kancha Gachibowli issue she shared on her ‘X’ account, leading to police summons. Jayesh Ranjan, formerly the industry secretary, has now taken over her position in the tourism department.
Jayesh Ranjan also steps into the Chief Minister’s office as CEO of the Industry and Investment Cell. Additionally, R V Karnan has been appointed as the GHMC Commissioner, previously known for conducting rigorous inspections and imposing fines on food establishments for hygiene violations.
M Dana Kishore, who was overseeing the Municipal Administration and Urban Development Department, has been transferred to the Labour Department.
MoD Issues Warning About Fake WhatsApp Messages Requesting Donations for Indian Army Modernization
Customs Officials Detain Passenger with 2 kg of Gold Bars at Delhi Airport
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