https://indianmasterminds.com

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT

Leading Odisha’s Agri-revolution Through ICT

Odisha has leveraged Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to enhance agricultural productivity. This has resulted in a remarkable 2.5-fold increase in food grain production. An integral aspect of the project is the active involvement of local communities in decision-making processes.
Indian Masterminds Stories

Odisha has undergone a remarkable transformation in its agricultural landscape, evolving from a food deficit state to a surplus one during the past two decades. The Odisha Government has spearheaded initiatives that leverage technology, community-driven approaches, and sustainable practices to enhance agricultural productivity and ensure food security for all.

Indian Masterminds exclusively spoke with IAS officer Anu Garg, currently posted as Development Commissioner Cum Additional Chief Secretary, Water Resources of Odisha to know more about the project.

IAS officer Anu Garg

THE ICT TOOLS

The key to Odisha’s agricultural success lies in embracing technological advancements to boost productivity. Information and communication technologies (ICTs) have been instrumental in facilitating better farm management, weather forecasting, and market access. This strategic use of technology has led to a 2.5-fold increase in food grain production, reaching 136.07 lakh MT in 2022-23 from 55.35 lakh MT in 2000-01.

Moreover, the adoption of scientific crop management practices, both conventional and digital, has not only increased non-paddy crop cultivation but also reduced the area under paddy cultivation. Schemes like “BALARAM” have improved access to timely formal credit for farming operations, benefiting Lessee Cultivators and sharecroppers.

ODISHA MILLET MISSION 

The project includes the Odisha Millet Mission (OMM), which focuses on crop diversification and climate-proofing agriculture. OMM has established a robust agri-value chain system, promoting a fork-to-farm approach and reducing dependence on inputs.

“This mission has not only contributed to sustainable food systems but also supported biodiversity,” shared the officer.

ENSURING FOOD SECURITY AND CLIMATE RESILIENCE

The state government’s commitment to “Leave No One Behind” is evident in its efforts to extend food security through increased productivity, protection of smallholders’ interests, and the promotion of climate-resilient crops and practices.

The Odisha Climate Change Action Plan 2021-30 prioritizes efficient micro and drip irrigation, stress-tolerant crop varieties, and organic farming to build climate resilience in agriculture.

COMMUNITY-INVOLVEMENT

An integral aspect of the government’s approach is the active involvement of local communities in decision-making processes. Pani Panchayats (Water Users Associations), Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and cooperatives play a crucial role in empowering farmers.

“Women, especially, are actively participating in the millet value chain, engaging in processing, value addition, and marketing under the Odisha Millet Mission.”

Mission Shakti, part of the Special Programme on Agriculture Production Clusters, aims to double the farm income of women farmers in tribal-dominated districts. Participatory approaches are employed to involve local communities in managing natural resources such as water and forests.

SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE

The community-driven approach in Odisha has led to a more inclusive and sustainable agricultural sector. Farmers benefit from increased access to credit and financial services through SHGs, improved farm power availability through government assistance in mechanization, and a substantial increase in both production and productivity of various crops.

THE KALIA SCHEME

The Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation  (KALIA) scheme reflects the state government’s commitment to addressing rural distress and enhancing the socio-economic conditions of farmers. It provides financial assistance for crop cultivation, livelihood diversification, and support to vulnerable households.

The scheme encompasses interest-free crop loans, financial assistance for inputs, and support for various agricultural allied activities, benefitting small and marginal farmers, sharecroppers, and landless agricultural households.

WATER SECURITY 

Odisha has undertaken transformative steps to boost water security, with a focus on completing long-pending irrigation projects, implementing instream storage structures, adopting underground pipeline systems, and incentivizing canal lining for water use efficiency. Community participation has been achieved through over 35,000 Pani Panchayats (WUAs).

The initiatives in Odisha have not only elevated the state’s agricultural prowess but have also set a precedent for inclusive and sustainable agricultural development. Through a combination of technological innovation, community empowerment, and strategic interventions, Odisha is paving the way for a resilient and prosperous agricultural future.


Indian Masterminds Stories
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Related Stories
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
NEWS
SBI_resized
Public Sector Banks Dismiss Rumours of ATM Shutdown, Confirm Full Operational Status
PetrolPump
Amid War Fears, Viral Images of Fuel Queues Spark Panic; Oil PSUs Assure Ample Supply
Ambala Blackout
Amid War Threat, Ambala DM Imposes 10-Hour Nightly Blackout to Avert Drone Strikes - Check Order Here
SBI_resized
SBI to Sell 13.19% Stake in Yes Bank to Japan’s SMBC for ₹8,889 Crore
IRS Gangadhar Panda
Gangadhar Panda Appointed as Principal CIT (OSD) in Principal CCIT Office, Delhi- Know more about him
NHPCMoU
NHPC Signs MoU with RVUNL to Develop 2,000 MW Pumped Storage and Renewable Energy Projects in Rajasthan
Ministry of Coal (resized)
Centre Signs Agreements with key Players to Accelerate Coal Gasification Projects
Indian Army Chief
Rule 33 Invoked: Centre Grants Army Chief Sweeping Powers to Mobilise 14 Territorial Army Battalions Amid Border Escalation
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Videos
IPS Sandeep Tamgadge
IPS Sandeep Tamgadge’s Two Decades of Service in Nagaland
IMG-20250429-WA0019
How Mission IAS is Transforming Dreams of Underprivileged UPSC Aspirants
Aakash Garg
Computer Engineer Aakash Garg Takes AIR-5 in UPSC CSE 2024 Through Sheer Discipline And Hard Work | Exclusive
ADVERTISEMENT
UPSC Stories
iqbal-ahmad-upsc-2024
From Cycle Repair Shop to UPSC Rank 998: UP's Iqabal Ahmad’s Inspiring Journey Against All Odds
Iqbal Ahmad, son of a handyman from Sant Kabir Nagar, secured 998th rank in UPSC 2024, fulfilling his...
IPS Sandeep Tamgadge
IPS Sandeep Tamgadge’s Two Decades of Service in Nagaland
For over 20 years, IPS officer Sandeep Tamgadge has served Nagaland, navigating its unique cultural landscape...
Shubham Kaurav UPSC
Four Attempts, One Dream: How Shubham Kaurav Cracked UPSC CSE with AIR 291
With determination, self-study, and a strategic mindset, Gwalior’s Shubham Kaurav turned years of hard...
Social Media
Fakenews
Be Aware: Fake Videos and Propaganda Cloud Public Discourse After India’s Cross-Border Strike
In the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, numerous false and doctored videos claiming to show the strikes...
Indore Road Safety Campaign by Air Hostesses
The Cleanest of India, Indore, Launches Inclusive Road Safety Campaign Featuring Air Hostesses - Know More!
In a unique civic initiative, Indore Traffic Police deployed air hostesses using sign language at key...
Shakti Dubey AIR 1
UPSC Rank 1 Shakti Dubey's Success Sparks Debate on Civil Services Examination System, Ex-IPS Officer Raises Questions
Shakti Dubey’s UPSC Rank 1 success has sparked debate after ex-IPS officer Yashovardhan Azad questioned...
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Latest
Chiefs of Armed Forces
National Security Reinforced by India’s Tri-Force Commanders | Operation Sindoor
SBI_resized
Public Sector Banks Dismiss Rumours of ATM Shutdown, Confirm Full Operational Status
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Videos
IPS Sandeep Tamgadge
IMG-20250429-WA0019
Aakash Garg
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT