Odisha to include local produce in ICDS and PDS schemes first time

Odisha for the first time will include locally cultivated ragi into the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and Public Distribution Scheme (PDS). This is being done as a part of the State Millet Mission that was launched by the Odisha Government in 2017.

Ragi Procurement

In 2020, the Odisha Government has procured 95,000 quintals of ragi as compared to 18,000 quintals in 2019. This has been achieved through the System of Millets Intensification by the Odisha Government. Under the programme, the State Government provides incentives for three years. Rs 5,000 per hectare is offered in the first year, Rs 3,000 per hectare in the second year and Rs 1,500 per hectare in the third year.

Odisha Millet Mission

The mission was launched to help 1000s of tribal farmers in Odisha. Millet, on the climate resilient and nutritious crops were traditionally cultivated and consumed in Odisha. However, due to the agricultural policies of 1960s that focused on rice and wheat to meet food security led to the decline in millet production. The decline increased even after including millets in National Food security Act, 2013.

The OMM was launched to change this scenario and boost millet production in the state.

Month: Current Affairs - July, 2020