Odisha Government Extends KALIA Scheme for 3 More Years

The Odisha state cabinet has approved extending its farmer welfare scheme KALIA (Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation) for another three years from 2024-2025 to 2026-2027. The total budget outlay sanctioned for the scheme over the next three years is Rs 6,029.70 crore.

Additional Financial Assistance for Landless Farmers

As per the cabinet decision, landless agricultural households that have already received all installments (Rs 12,500) under the KALIA scheme will now be given an additional financial assistance of Rs 2,000. This move aims to further aid landless farmer families in the state.

Modified Schedule for Disbursal of Funds

Earlier, financial assistance under KALIA was provided to beneficiaries twice a year before the Kharif and Rabi cropping seasons. The Odisha cabinet has now decided that the dates for release of funds can be modified by the state government from time to time as deemed suitable. Assistance for landless agriculture households will also be disbursed alongside.

Permanent Land Allotment for Displaced Families

The cabinet has approved free-of-cost allotment of tenements to 515 displaced families from former East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) and Burma who have been settled in the Sunabeda municipality area of Koraput district since 1964. This move aims to provide permanent land ownership and titles to these families.

Incentives for Mega Projects Under Semiconductor Policy

Amendments have been made to the state’s semiconductor manufacturing and fabless policy 2023 pertaining to mega projects investing over Rs 500 crore. As per the revised policy, such projects can avail an upper limit of Rs 25 crore per year for 7 years towards interest subsidy. Moreover, reimbursements have been introduced for expenses related to R&D and skill development.

Hindi Film “12th Fail” Made Tax-Free

The recently released Hindi film “12th Fail”, which carries a motivational message, has been exempted from state entertainment tax. This tax break will make the movie more affordable for people to go watch across Odisha.

Category: States Current Affairs