Odisha Explores Advanced Rice Technologies, Value Chains During ISARC Visit

Bhubaneswar: Senior officials from the Government of Odisha engaged with global agricultural experts during a high-level visit to the International Rice Research Institute–South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) in Varanasi, aimed at strengthening collaboration in sustainable rice systems and digital agriculture.

The delegation, led by Sachin Ramchandra Jadhav, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment Department, focused on exploring innovative approaches to enhance rice-based farming systems, including the use of geospatial tools, data-driven planning, and value addition strategies.

Officials were welcomed by Vikas Kumar Singh, who highlighted ISARC’s ongoing initiatives in Odisha, particularly in climate-resilient agriculture and technology-enabled interventions. Discussions centred on expanding cooperation to improve productivity, strengthen agri-value chains, and promote sustainable practices.

A major highlight of the visit was the launch of a two-day workshop on “Optimizing Agricultural Land Use and Rice Fallow in Odisha with Geospatial Technology and a Decision Support System.” The programme brought together around 23 officials and experts to deliberate on the growing role of geospatial intelligence in improving agricultural planning and resource utilisation.

The delegation also received detailed briefings from Swati Nayak on IRRI’s work in India and Odisha. A tour of ISARC’s advanced facilities showcased innovations in plant and soil science, remote sensing technologies, speed breeding, farm mechanisation, and regenerative agriculture.

Further engagements at the Centre of Excellence in Rice Value Addition (CERVA) focused on boosting Odisha’s rice and millet value chains. Discussions highlighted opportunities for developing processed and value-added food products, while promoting entrepreneurship through self-help groups.

The team also reviewed progress on a project aimed at establishing a Specialty Rice and Millet Factory-cum-Training Centre in Bhubaneswar. The proposed facility will support food processing, skill development, and the production of nutritionally enhanced, low glycaemic index rice-based products.

Led by Nese Sreenivasulu and other experts, the review concluded with a commitment to deepen collaboration between IRRI and Odisha. The partnership is expected to accelerate adoption of digital technologies, strengthen value chains, and advance climate-resilient agriculture across the state.