Orissa's growth rate would be brought at par with the national average and the farm sector provided the utmost attention if the Congress is voted back to power in the ensuing assembly elections in the state, the party election manifesto has promised.
The manifesto, released jointly by PCC chief J.B. Patnaik and AICC leader Digvijay Singh here today, promised to bring at par the state's growth rate with the national average in five years through a series of initiatives to be undertaken if the Congress formed the government.
Focussing on the alleged recycling of rice and distress sale of produce by farmers, it said a farmer assistance authority would be set up which would intervene to ensure procurement at support price.
A comprehensive plan would be formulated under a mission to introduce, assist and expand the coverage of non-paddy crops with linkage for storage, preservation and processing.
All farmers would be covered under Kishan Credit Card scheme in five years and payment of compensation to farmers for crop loss would be streamlined under the crop insurance scheme.
Promising no enhancement of water cess or power tariff for agriculture during the next five years, the manifesto said a new scheme for rural connectivity and market development -- called 'from field to market' -- would be launched to facilitate transport of produce from field to the market.
{{/usCountry}}Promising no enhancement of water cess or power tariff for agriculture during the next five years, the manifesto said a new scheme for rural connectivity and market development -- called 'from field to market' -- would be launched to facilitate transport of produce from field to the market.
{{/usCountry}}Besides, a comprehensive state water policy would be formulated which would include optimal availability wnd use of water for irrigation, drinking water and other domestic needs.