Odisha CM announces Rs 2000 crore package allowing 4 month advance under social schemes

In a massive relief to Odisha residents, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, on Friday anunced a Rs 2200 crore relief pack for weaker sections amid 21-day lockdown due to Coronavirus. He anunced three separate packs - a Rs 940 crore pack under food security scheme offering 3 months vance allowance ration to 94 lakh PDS beneficiaries, a Rs 932 crore pack to or 48 lakh beneficiaries offering 4 months vance allowance under various social schemes and a Rs 330 crore pack for 22 lakh registered construction workers - giving Rs1500 each. Odisha has reported only 2 positive cases till date.

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Patnaik donates three months' salary

Earlier on Wednesday, Patnaik anunced that all government medical professionals including doctors and or healthcare staff will be paid a 4-month vance salary (for months of April, May, June, and July) which will be paid in April. He also directed police to take strict action against anyone obstructing or misbehaving with medical professionals.  Patnaik has alrey donated his three months’ salary to CM Relief Fund for helping individuals affected by COVID-19 pandemic.

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Coronavirus crisis in India

As of date, 724 positive cases have been reported of pandemic Coronavirus (COVID-19) - 66 have been discharged and Maharashtra reporting highest at 135. 17 deaths have been reported till date. India has suspended all visas and barred travel from Afghanistan, Philippines, EU, UK, China, Malaysia and mandatory 14-day quarantine from several or countries and Prime Minister has issued a 21-day countrywide lockdown starting from 25 March to April 15. 

Naveen Patnaik anunces 4 months' vance salary to govt medical professionals in Odisha

India has also closed India-Pakistan border and restricted passenger movement at border with Banglesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Myanmar.   government is monitoring all suspected cases and issued preventive visories with states declaring disease an epidemic shutting down all educational institutions, monuments, parks, gyms, swimming pools, pubs and banning large garings. All domestic airplanes and trains have ceased operation.