Bhubaneswar: The Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of Odisha, in collaboration with FICCI, successfully concluded Krushi Odisha 2024 at Janata Maidan on Sunday. Governor Raghubar Das, the chief guest at the valedictory function, encouraged women farmers to embrace modern machinery and technology, urging Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) to enhance the packaging and marketing of their produce. He emphasized that the development of rural areas would accelerate the overall progress of the country, envisioning Odisha as a prosperous state by 2047.
Governor Das highlighted the unparalleled contribution of women in various sectors like agriculture, animal husbandry, and fisheries. He praised the increased productivity in the agricultural sector, leading the state government to receive the prestigious Krushi Karman Award. The governor recognized the significant contribution of women farmers, particularly in tribal areas, where their impact exceeds that of men.
Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Ranendra Pratap Swain announced the upcoming Krushi Machinery Fair at the block level, following the success of the fair at the sub-division level. The state government has facilitated agricultural machinery transactions worth Rs 1,400 crore, providing subsidies amounting to Rs 500 crore, with a focus on supporting farmers, generating employment, and increasing production.
Minister for Water Resources, Commerce, and Transport, Tukuni Sahu emphasized the essential role of water in farming, highlighting the coordination between the Water Resources Department and the Department of Agriculture. She underscored the state government’s commitment to uplift women and the various schemes formulated for their empowerment.
Dr. Arbinda Padhee, IAS, Principal Secretary, Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, acknowledged the indispensable contribution of women to the continuous transformation of the agriculture sector. He emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing the prosperity and dignity of women farmers.
During the event, Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed with premier institutions, covering areas from women farmer training to income augmentation.
Krushi Odisha 2024, held under the theme “Celebrating the Achievements of Women in Agriculture,” witnessed the participation of around 5,000 women farmers, 2,000 women self-help group members, agri-entrepreneurs, agronomists, and stakeholders from across the state. The program featured 17 technical sessions, covering various aspects of agriculture and women empowerment.
The event showcased an exhibition of agricultural machinery and technologies, along with cultural activities such as experimental water sports, local farmer songs, stories, postcard exchanges, Kisan Suvidha Kendra, and an experimental learning center, making Krushi Odisha 2024 a diverse and engaging platform.