Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Government will soon release the second phase financial assistance to the eligible beneficiaries under the KALIA (Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation) scheme.

Nearly 18 lakh farmers including five lakh landless farmers will receive the financial assistance under the scheme, informed Finance and Agriculture Minister Shashi Bhusan Behera here today.

The State Government will address the issues which were faced during the release of funds in the first phase, he said.

Although the date of release of funds to the farmers is not finalized yet, it will be done soon, he added. 

As many as 12.45 lakh farmers received Rs 5,000 each to their bank account through direct benefit transfer in the first phase under the KALIA scheme that Chief Minister Naveen launched to enhance agricultural prosperity and reduce poverty in Odisha.

KALIA is a wonderful scheme and all the people in the State are appreciating it, the Finance Minister said.