CAG Exposes Flaws in Odisha's KALIA Scheme: Rs 782.26 Crore Distributed to Ineligible Beneficiaries

The BJD government's KALIA scheme in Odisha saw Rs 782.26 crore disbursed to 12.72 lakh ineligible beneficiaries, as per a CAG report. Launched in 2018 to support farmers, the scheme struggled with poor planning and execution, leading to improper payments and system deficiencies.

A recent CAG report has laid bare the shortcomings of Odisha's Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) scheme. The report reveals that the BJD government disbursed Rs 782.26 crore to 12.72 lakh ineligible beneficiaries.

The scheme, aimed at providing financial assistance to various agricultural households, was launched in December 2018. However, poor planning and rushed implementation led to significant issues, including payments to unauthorized individuals.

Among the six components of the scheme, only two were properly executed between 2018-21. The CAG has recommended the Odisha government develop a robust identification system and IT framework to ensure more effective future implementations.

(With inputs from agencies.)