Bhubaneswar: The Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment (DA&FE) has launched a new lecture series titled “Krushi Gyan Lecture Series: Viksit Odisha for Viksit Bharat”, with the first lecture held on January 6, 2026, at the Krushi Bhavan Auditorium in Bhubaneswar. The inaugural session focused on the future roadmap of agricultural development in India, with special emphasis on Odisha.
Delivering the inaugural lecture, Dr. Mangi Lal Jat, Secretary, Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and Director General, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), presented an in-depth address on “Vision Plan for Viksit Bharat 2047 in the field of Agricultural Research, Education and Extension with a focus on Odisha.” He described Odisha as a “living laboratory” for science-led agricultural transformation and noted that the State is well ahead of many others in agri-skill development. Dr. Jat lauded the State’s progressive vision and transformative initiatives in the agriculture sector.
The lecture highlighted key strategic priorities, innovations and policy directions in agricultural research, education and extension systems that are vital for achieving the national goal of Viksit Bharat 2047, while taking into account Odisha’s distinct agro-climatic conditions and socio-economic realities.
The Krushi Gyan Lecture Series aims to provide a platform for meaningful dialogue among farmers, policymakers, researchers, academicians, students and development stakeholders. The series is designed to encourage informed discussions on Odisha’s contribution to India’s agricultural growth and its role in the country’s broader development journey.
Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary, DA&FE, introduced the guest speaker and thanked the Director General of ICAR for gracing the inaugural event. The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment. Additional Secretary Shubhranshu Mishra delivered the welcome address, while Joint Director of Agriculture Dr. Sangram Keshari Pattanayak proposed the vote of thanks.
The event witnessed the participation of senior government officials, scientists, academicians, and representatives from Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) and various ICAR institutions, marking a strong beginning to the lecture series aimed at shaping the future of agriculture in Odisha.
