Agriculture is the backbone of India’s economy, and farmers are its lifeline. Recognizing the need for inclusive and sustainable support, the Government of Odisha launched the KALIA Yojana (Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation) in December 2018. This transformative scheme has emerged as a beacon of hope for farmers, landless agricultural labourers, and vulnerable cultivators in the state.
In this blog, we delve into the objectives, benefits, features, and success stories of the KALIA Scheme while also providing a roadmap for farmers on how to avail of its benefits.
What is KALIA Yojana?
The KALIA Scheme is an innovative agricultural welfare program that aims to reduce poverty, provide financial assistance, and ensure livelihood security for small and marginal farmers, landless agricultural households, and vulnerable cultivators. The scheme adopts a holistic approach by addressing multiple aspects of agricultural development and rural livelihoods.
Key Objectives of KALIA Yojana
- Financial Inclusion: Ensure timely financial assistance for farming activities and livelihood support.
- Poverty Alleviation: Address the needs of landless agricultural households and vulnerable populations.
- Livelihood Diversification: Promote allied agricultural activities such as animal husbandry, fisheries, and horticulture.
- Debt Mitigation: Reduce dependency on informal loans by providing interest-free credit.
- Sustainable Agricultural Growth: Encourage the adoption of modern farming practices and tools.
Main Features of the KALIA Scheme
1. Financial Assistance to Small and Marginal Farmers
Each eligible farmer family receives ₹10,000 annually in two installments, ₹5,000 for the Kharif season and ₹5,000 for the Rabi season.
This ensures the timely availability of funds for seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs.
2. Livelihood Support for Landless Agricultural Households
₹12,500 is provided to landless households engaged in livestock rearing, fisheries, beekeeping, or other allied activities.
Encourages income diversification and rural entrepreneurship.
3. Support for Vulnerable Cultivators
Financial assistance of ₹10,000 annually is given to vulnerable agricultural households, including the elderly, disabled, and widowed.
This ensures dignity and livelihood for those unable to undertake physical labor.
4. Interest-Free Crop Loans
Farmers can avail loans of up to ₹50,000 at 0% interest, reducing dependency on private moneylenders and informal credit sources.
5. Insurance Coverage
Life Insurance Coverage: Personal accident insurance of ₹2 lakhs for accidental death or permanent disability.
Health Insurance: Premiums are subsidized, ensuring healthcare for farming families.
6. Focus on Women Farmers
The scheme encourages women farmers to actively participate in agricultural and allied activities.
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Eligibility for the KALIA Yojana
Farmers and agricultural workers who meet the following criteria are eligible for the scheme:
- Small and Marginal Farmers: Owning up to 5 acres of cultivable land.
- Landless Agricultural Households: Dependent on daily wages in agriculture.
- Vulnerable Agricultural Households: Includes elderly farmers, widows, and those with disabilities.
- Must be residents of Odisha.
- Should not be covered under other similar schemes or have government jobs.
How to Apply for the KALIA Scheme
Farmers can apply for the scheme through the following steps:
Offline Application:
- Visit the nearest Gram Panchayat or Block Office to fill out the KALIA Yojana application form.
- Register through the official KALIA Scheme Portal at kalia.odisha.gov.in.
- Fill in required details such as Aadhaar number, bank account details, and landholding information.
Verification:
Applications are verified by the government to ensure eligibility before disbursing benefits.
Benefits of the KALIA Scheme
- Timely Assistance: Ensures availability of funds during the sowing season, reducing reliance on informal credit.
- Livelihood Security: Empowers landless households to explore sustainable income sources.
- Empowerment of Women: Promotes gender inclusion in agriculture and allied sectors.
- Debt-Free Farming: Facilitates access to interest-free loans, mitigating debt burdens.
- Sustainability: Encourages the use of modern equipment and eco-friendly farming practices.
Impact of KALIA Yojana on Odisha’s Agriculture
The scheme has significantly transformed rural livelihoods in Odisha:
- Improved Yields: Financial assistance has enabled farmers to invest in quality inputs.
- Reduced Debt Dependency: Interest-free loans have curbed reliance on private lenders.
- Livelihood Diversification: Many landless households have ventured into animal husbandry and horticulture, increasing income stability.
- Inclusivity: Vulnerable sections of society, often overlooked in welfare schemes, have gained financial security.
Success Stories of KALIA Yojana Beneficiaries
1. Ramesh Nayak: Small Farmer from Cuttack
Ramesh, a small farmer owning 2 acres of land, struggled to afford quality seeds and fertilizers for his paddy crop. With ₹10,000 in assistance under the KALIA scheme, he purchased high-quality seeds and adopted better irrigation practices. The result? A 30% increase in his yield, enabling him to repay his debts and save for his daughter’s education.
2. Sunita Behera: Landless Labourer from Balangir
Sunita, a landless agricultural labourer, used the ₹12,500 assistance from KALIA to start poultry farming. Within two years, her business grew, providing her with a steady income and the ability to employ two more women from her village. Today, Sunita is a model entrepreneur, inspiring others to explore allied agricultural ventures.
3. Mohan Das: Vulnerable Farmer from Puri
At 72, Mohan struggled to cultivate his small plot due to age and health issues. Under KALIA, he received ₹10,000, which he used to hire labour and rent equipment. This helped him maintain his livelihood and ensure his family’s well-being without falling into the debt trap.
Challenges and the Way Forward
Despite its success, the KALIA Scheme faces challenges such as:
- Ensuring accurate identification of beneficiaries.
- Avoiding duplication of benefits with other schemes.
To address these, the government is integrating the scheme with digital tools for better monitoring and transparency. By empowering farmers, promoting diversification, and addressing financial challenges, the KALIA Scheme is driving a rural revolution in Odisha, creating a brighter future for Indian agriculture.
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