Bhubaneswar: Emphasizing the importance of organic farming for a sustainable food supply, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Empowerment, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, addressed a seminar on “Aromatic Rice: Organic Farming Methods and Marketing” during the second day of Krushi Odisha-2025.
Singh Deo highlighted Odisha’s pivotal role in aromatic rice production in India, noting the increasing market demand for the state’s produce. He underlined the medicinal benefits of organic products and reiterated the state government’s commitment to promoting sustainable agricultural practices that prioritize the welfare of farmers.
Principal Secretary of the Agriculture Department, Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, outlined the state’s efforts to enhance market access for Odisha’s agricultural products. He announced a minimum support price (MSP) of ₹4,100 per quintal for aromatic rice and highlighted Odisha’s pioneering initiative in providing direct assistance to farmers for organic farming.
In a notable development, Dr. Padhee revealed plans to use organically grown rice in the preparation of the sacred Abadha at Shree Jagannath Temple, linking sustainable agriculture with cultural heritage.
The seminar celebrated the contributions of farmer Sudam Sahu, who has preserved over 1,000 indigenous paddy varieties. This effort underscores Odisha’s dedication to biodiversity and traditional farming methods.
Eminent speakers, including Professor Prasannajit Mishra from Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Dr. Bijay Choudhury from the Netherlands, Sachin Kumar Sharma of WTO, and Professor Amar Kumar Nayak of XIMB, shared insights on regenerative agriculture, organic farming methods, and international marketing prospects for rice.
The event witnessed the signing of MOUs with Kanak Bioscience Research Pvt. Ltd., Smart Coffee, and Impact X, strengthening innovation and market connectivity. Prominent farmers were felicitated for their contributions to the sector.
The seminar, attended by Director of Agriculture Prem Chandra Chaudhary, Director of Horticulture Nikhil Pawan Kalyan, and a large gathering of farmers and students, featured eight sessions on various topics conducted across two seminar halls. The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Rajesh Das.