Bhubaneswar: Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Tuesday began its 3-day state-wide demonstration near Raj Bhavan in Bhubaneswar to resist Rs 20,000 crore reduction in paddy procurement and closure of Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY).
A group of BJD workers including ministers and lawmakers joined the protest carrying placards and banners against the Centre’s decision.
Senior BJD leader Debi Prasad Mishra said, ”BJD workers will demonstrate in front of every district collectorate and block office across the state. Also, the party will stage large-scale demonstrations at each Gram Panchayat headquarters in all 30 districts of Odisha.”
Mishra stated that farmers in Odisha will be severely affected as a result of reduced subsidy in Union Budget 2023.
Mishra demanded immediate steps to resume PMGKAY scheme claiming that even though the COVID-19 situation has improved, the pandemic’s effects are still being felt by the poor. He added PMGKAY affects 3.25 crore population in Odisha.
Apart from these protests, BJD sent a memorandum to the President through the Governor regarding the issues of paddy procurement and PMGKAY, Mishra informed.
Previously, Central government decided to stop distribution of five kilogram free rice per person per month under PMGKAY.
As per the Centre, the economic conditions have improved following the decrease in COVID-19 cases and the restrictions have been lifted which led to decision to withdraw PMGKAY. Meanwhile, the Centre has decided to offer free ration under National Food Security Act (NFSA) in an effort to shield the poor from termination of PMGKAY December 31, 2022.
PNN