Pradhan attacks Odisha government on farmers issue

Bhubaneswar, Nov 6 : Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday accused the Odisha government of "failing to discharge" its responsibility to address farmers' problems, who have been affected by drought and pest attack.

"While several farmers have already committed suicide, the inefficient and insensible government has failed to address their problems. It has failed to discharge its responsibilities," said Pradhan.

Terming the BJD government as propaganda and publicity driven, he said the government only announces packages but shows lack of enthusiasm in disbursement.

He said several BJP ruled state governments are providing bonus on crops and waiving farm loans whereas the Odisha government did not provide bonus on paddy as announced earlier.

Pradhan also criticised the government for not coming out with the sharecropper policy even after holding several deliberations on the issue.

The Minister said he has informed the Union Agriculture Minister about the farmers issue in the state.

Speaking on demonetisation, he said the saffron party has decided to observe November 8 as anti-black money day.

He said the state unit of BJP like other state units of the party would observe November 8 as 'anti-black money' day to mark the first anniversary of demonetisation.

The Minister claimed it has led to multi-dimensional success in curbing corruption.