Leader of Opposition Pradipta Kumar Naik on Saturday alleged in the State Assembly that funds to the tune of Rs 86 crore have been misappropriated in the Odisha Khadi and Village Industries Board (OKVIB).
Raising the issue during the Zero Hour, Naik said the Centre and the State Government had together given Rs 86 crore to the KVIB between 2014 and 17 to boost apiculture. The allocation was meant for providing skill development training and beehive kits to beekeepers. Following the allocation of funds 1,480 honey farmers were given 2,400 honey boxes. However, the records showed that each honey box was purchased at Rs 30,000 instead of the actual cost of Rs 1,000.
“Rs 86 crore has been embezzled by producing false bills. The purpose of the allocation was not met. Hence, a thorough investigation should be conducted,” demanded Naik.
Though the Board spent the entire amount of Rs 86 crore, yet it could sell products of Rs 3.58 crore only.
He urged Speaker Surjya Narayan Patro to order a thorough probe into the irregularities. In response, the Speaker directed the departmental Minister to make a statement in this regard soon.
