Bhubaneswar: The 5T and Nabin Odisha chairman V.K. Pandian today reviewed the implementation of Mukhyamantri Maka Mission (MMM) and the progress of the program adopted to solve the various problems of betel leaf farmers, kewada farmers and Lemongrass farmers through public grievance hearing.
The review revealed that encouraging progress has been observed in the field visit initiated for Mukhyamantri Maka Mission programme with a 51% rise in production.
The procurement price of maize has also increased. By the end of November, 44,730 quintals of maize have been procured through the FPO.
It was decided in the meeting for formation of more FPOs so that maize farmers can get fair price. A decision has been taken to involve more traders so that the farmers get more value.
It was also decided that steps will be taken to increase the capacity of FPO. ORMAS will also cooperate in primary processing and marketing of the maize.
As many as 15 FPOs will be formed by the end of this year and 13 of them have already been set up.
Four FPOs have been formed with women members only. In the first year of the mission, the government has set a target to procure 20,000 metric tons of maize.
Maka Mission has been implemented in Nabarangpur, Koraput, Gajapati and Nuapada districts. Mission Shakti members are also participating in the mission along with the farmers.
Betel leaf farmers, kewda and lemon grass farmers had drawn the attention of Pandian regarding their problems during his visit to the districts.
Accordingly, the state government, with the approval of the Chief Minister, announced various programmes for farmers. The Chief Minister announced interest-free loans of up to Rs 1 lakh for betel farmers.
Similarly, it was also announced to make kewda flowers processing unit through APICOL. It was decided to provide financial assistance of Rs 84 thousand under Horticulture Mission Plus and Rs. 16,000 under NHM to lemongrass farmers.
