Bhubaneswar, November 24: While replying to a query of BJP MLA Dilip Ray, Youth & Sports Services Minister Chandra Sarathi Behera told the Assembly that 2,62,453 youths have joined the Biju Yuva Vahini so far and the target of 4 lakh would be achieved by the year end.

Balasore has seen the highest number of BYV recruitment at 21,850 youths. 19,813 youths have joined the Biju Yuva Vahini in Cuttack district followed by Ganjam (17,919), Kalahandi (13,715), Bolangir (12,627), Mayurbhanj (12,315), Khordha (12,042), Jajpur (10,998), Bargarh (10,860), Kendrapara (10,411), Keonjhar (10,348). Other districts have less than 10,000 BYV members.

In total, 7,279 bank accounts have been opened for Biju Yuva Vahini till date. 7,455 office bearers have been appointed to manage the Biju Yuva Vahini offices across the state.

Rs 450.49 crore has been allocated for Biju Yuva Vahin for a three-year period. According to the Minister, the youths of BYV are working towards achieving the goal of prohibition-free Odisha while taking a vow not to consume alcohol and use tobaccos.