Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik launched the much-awaited cattle breeding programme at a function here on Thursday.
Naveen, who air dashed to Koraput in the afternoon, hoped that the programme aimed at developing animal resources in the State would help improve the socio-economic condition of the farmers. He was accompanied by industrialist Vijaypat Singhania.
The programme would be jointly conducted by State Animal Resources Development Department and JK Trust led by Singhania. As many as 16 districts would be covered and necessary mobile units and infrastructure provided for cattle development at an estimated cost of ` 100 crore.
Later, the Chief Minister launched the Saakshar Bharat programme at the police ground.
Addressing a mammoth gathering, Naveen reiterated that development has been the mantra of the BJD-led State Government.
The government is determined to uplift the poor, particularly the tribals of the State and several programmes have been taken up to educate people about their rights.
Among others, Ministers Lal Bihari Himirika, Rabi Narayan Nanda, Debi Prasad Mishra and MP Jayaram Pangi were present.
BLACK FLAGS: The meeting also witnessed noisy scenes with Congress activists shouting slogans against the Chief Minister and waving black flags. Later, the police rounded up about 50 Congress activists.
Elaborate security arrangements were made with 2,000 security personnel deployed to maintain law and order against the backdrop of Maoist threats.