He launched the second phase of digitised ration cards distribution to beneficiaries under National Food Security Act (NFSA) at Baripada. Under the second phase digitised ration cards would be provided to beneficiaries of 16 districts. In the first phase the cards were issued to beneficiaries of 14 districts.
Addressing on the occasion, the Chief Minister said the state government has declared Rs 1,000 crore special drought package for the aggrieved farmers. And farmers of the Mayurbhanj district would also be covered under the special package.
As per the report issued by Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) GVV Sharma, 41 farmers have committed suicide in the state. He told media that 21 districts and 139 blocks have been confirmed drought-affected.