KALIA Yojana: Interest-Free Crop Loans Upto Rs. 50,000, Know About Eligibility Criteria, Features, & Benefits

The Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) Scheme, initiated by the Odisha Government, is making waves in the state's agricultural landscape. Designed to bolster agricultural prosperity and reduce poverty among farmers, KALIA is a comprehensive package offering various benefits to eligible beneficiaries.

Here's a breakdown of the scheme and who stands to benefit:

KALIA Scheme Overview:

The KALIA Scheme, an acronym for "Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation," is a welfare package launched by the Odisha Government. Its primary goal is to accelerate agricultural prosperity and alleviate poverty within the state.

Eligibility Criteria:

Small and Marginal Farmers: Those who own between 1 hectare (2.5 acres) to 2 hectares (5 acres) of agricultural land.

Landless Agricultural Households: Vulnerable agricultural households, landless agricultural laborers, and sharecroppers (actual cultivators).

Vulnerable Agricultural Households: Includes those in old age, with disabilities, diseases, or facing vulnerability for any other reason.

A total of 50 lakh families fall within these eligibility categories.

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Benefits for Cultivators:

Small and marginal farmers are entitled to receive financial assistance of Rs. 25,000 per farm family over five seasons. This support enables them to procure essential inputs like seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and labor, fostering sustainable farming practices.

Support for Landless Households:

Landless agricultural households receive financial assistance of Rs. 12,500 each, which can be utilized for various agricultural allied activities such as small goat rearing, mini-layer units, duckery units, fishery kits, mushroom cultivation, and beekeeping. This initiative particularly benefits the Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) populations of the state.

Assistance for Vulnerable Households:

Vulnerable agricultural households, including those in old age, with disabilities, diseases, or facing other vulnerabilities, receive financial assistance of Rs. 10,000 per family per year. This support aims to ensure their sustenance and well-being.

Life Insurance Support:

KALIA offers life insurance coverage of Rs. 2.00 lakh at a nominal premium of Rs. 330, with the government of Odisha covering the farmers' share of the annual premium, which amounts to Rs. 165. Additionally, a personal accident cover of Rs. 2.00 lakh is provided at an annual premium of Rs. 12, with a portion of Rs. 6 being the farmers' share, also covered by the government. Beneficiaries aged between 51-70 years have their entire premium amount borne by the state government.

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Interest-Free Crop Loans:

Farmers can access interest-free crop loans up to Rs. 50,000 from the Kharif Season, easing their financial burden during crucial agricultural seasons.

The KALIA Scheme stands as a testament to the Odisha government's commitment to uplifting its farming community. By providing a comprehensive support package that covers a wide range of needs, from financial assistance for inputs to insurance and livelihood support, the government aims to ensure that farmers can lead dignified and prosperous lives. The scheme is not only a boon to Odisha's agricultural sector but also a model for farmer welfare programs across the nation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. What is the KALIA Scheme, and what is its primary objective?

The KALIA Scheme, which stands for "Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation," is a comprehensive initiative launched by the Odisha Government. Its primary objective is to accelerate agricultural prosperity and reduce poverty in the state by providing financial assistance and support to farmers and vulnerable agricultural households.

2. Who is eligible to benefit from the KALIA Scheme?

The scheme covers various categories of beneficiaries, including small and marginal farmers, landless agricultural households, vulnerable agricultural households, and those facing old age, disabilities, diseases, or other vulnerabilities. In total, 50 lakh families are eligible under the scheme.

3. What types of financial assistance are provided to farmers under the KALIA Scheme?

Small and marginal farmers receive financial assistance of Rs. 25,000 per farm family over five seasons to purchase agricultural inputs and support their farming activities. Landless agricultural households receive Rs. 12,500 for various agricultural allied activities. Vulnerable agricultural households receive Rs. 10,000 per family per year to ensure their sustenance.

4. How does the KALIA Scheme support farmers in terms of insurance?

The scheme offers life insurance coverage of Rs. 2.00 lakh at a nominal premium of Rs. 330, with the government of Odisha covering the farmers' share of the annual premium. Additionally, there is a personal accident cover of Rs. 2.00 lakh available at an annual premium of Rs. 12, with a portion of Rs. 6 being borne by the government. Even beneficiaries aged between 51-70 years have their entire premium amount covered by the state.

5. Does the KALIA Scheme provide interest-free crop loans to farmers?

Yes, the KALIA Scheme supports farmers by offering interest-free crop loans of up to Rs. 50,000. These loans have been available since the Kharif Season of 2019, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on farmers during crucial agricultural seasons.

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