Deputy CM Reviews Kharif Preparedness in Keonjhar, Focuses on El Niño Readiness

Bhubaneswar/Keonjhar: With concerns over possible weather disruptions during the upcoming agricultural season, the Odisha government has intensified field-level monitoring and preparedness measures, with Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo reviewing ground conditions and interacting directly with farmers in Keonjhar district ahead of Kharif-2026.

During his district visit, the Deputy Chief Minister, who also holds the Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment and Energy portfolios, assessed ongoing agricultural activities and evaluated readiness for the monsoon cropping season.

A key focus of the visit was preparedness against the possible impact of El Niño, which may influence rainfall patterns during the season. Singh Deo visited agricultural fields and held discussions with farmers on paddy nursery preparation, transplanting activities and contingency measures being adopted to minimise climate-related risks.

Reviewing field conditions and district-level planning, he instructed Agriculture Department officials to remain fully prepared and ensure effective implementation of the District Agriculture Contingency Plan.

He emphasised that timely advisories, uninterrupted availability of seeds and other agricultural inputs, and close monitoring of crop conditions would play a critical role in protecting farmers’ livelihoods and sustaining agricultural productivity.

During the tour, the Deputy Chief Minister also inspected a proposed site identified for establishing model farms in Keonjhar district. The proposed facilities are expected to function as demonstration centres for modern agricultural techniques, farmer training, research support and wider dissemination of scientific farming practices.

Expressing satisfaction over the preparations undertaken by the district administration and line departments, Singh Deo said coordinated planning and timely interventions would help farmers navigate challenges even if monsoon conditions remain below normal.

He expressed confidence that Keonjhar is adequately prepared for the Kharif season and said continued field engagement and administrative support would remain central to ensuring a successful crop cycle.

The visit was attended by MLA and District Planning Committee Chairperson Dr. Fakir Mohan Naik, MLA Akhil Chandra Nayak, Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment Department Commissioner-cum-Secretary Sachin Ramchandra Jadhav, the Keonjhar Collector and senior district and departmental officials.