Central team admits extensive crop loss

The eight-member Central team which wrapped up its four-day visit to the eight districts of Orissa hit by the unseasonal rains, has admitted extensive crop loss in the state. The team is set to submit its report soon to the Centre.

"On the basis of our visit to the eight worst hit districts of the state, we have to agree that the crop loss has been extensive and substantial. The team will submit its report shortly to the Centre and on the basis of this report, a compensation package will be worked out for the state”, Pankaj Kumar, joint secretary, Union ministry of agriculture and leader of the team briefed mediapersons.

 

The team which concluded its four-day visit today held discussions with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and other highly placed officials of the state government.

“The Centre needs to announce the compensation package for the rain hit farmers as soon as possible”, said the Chief Minister.

It may be noted that last week, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had called on Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and requested him to release funds amounting to Rs 2616.19 crore from the National Disaster Response Fund to assist the lives of the affected farmers of the state. Patnaik had also called on Union agriculture minister Sharad Pawar.