Odisha Showcases 15 Traditional Rice Varieties at Bharat International Rice Conference 2026

New Delhi: Odisha is showcasing its rich rice heritage at the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2026 in New Delhi, with 15 traditional rice varieties and products from eight districts being presented to connect local producers with wider domestic and international markets.

Being held at Bharat Mandapam from October 23 to 25, the conference provides a platform for Odisha’s distinctive rice varieties to reach potential buyers, processors, retailers and institutional purchasers. The initiative is being facilitated by the Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS) under the Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department, with a focus on market access, community-based enterprises and rural livelihoods.

The initiative involves 85 community-based organisations (CBOs), with a reported engagement of 3,695 members. It also aims to preserve indigenous rice diversity and traditional agricultural knowledge while recognising the contribution of farming communities to the state’s agricultural heritage.

Eight districts bring Odisha’s rice diversity to the fore

The varieties on display reflect the diversity of rice cultivated across Odisha’s regions. Puri is showcasing Sarala, Sona Masoori, Pooja and Samrat, while Kendrapada is presenting Leelavati Aromatic Rice.

Koraput is highlighting its Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged Kaala Jeera rice. Mayurbhanj is showcasing Mugei, Salafula and Kalachampa, while Bargarh is represented by Jasmine Black Rice. Ganjam is presenting Khanipaka and Labanya Black Rice, and Sundargarh is displaying Kanderajhal and Machkanta. Jagatsinghpur is contributing low-glycaemic-index rice to the range.

The showcase highlights not only the diversity of Odisha’s rice varieties but also the traditional knowledge and regional identities associated with their cultivation.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said the conference would bring Odisha’s unique rice varieties to the attention of a wider audience.

“Our traditional rice varieties embody generations of farmers’ knowledge, regional identity and rich biodiversity. Our vision is to translate this rich heritage into wider market opportunities, stronger rural livelihoods and inclusive growth,” he said.

Focus on market linkages and value addition

Beyond showcasing the varieties, Odisha’s participation aims to establish stronger commercial connections between producer groups and buyers, including wholesalers, retailers, processors, hotels, restaurants and institutional purchasers.

ORMAS is seeking to position the products for wider market engagement through branded, retail-ready packaging, product sampling and opportunities for distribution, institutional supply and private-label partnerships.

The effort also places emphasis on improving aggregation, quality assurance, packaging, branding and value addition. These measures can help producer groups improve market readiness, expand their customer base and create more sustainable enterprise opportunities.

Rabi Narayan Naik, Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water, said ORMAS was working to bridge the gap between rural producers and markets.

“Our focus is on strengthening community-based organisations, improving product presentation and market readiness, and building partnerships that enable farmers to benefit from the growing demand for distinctive, quality agricultural products,” he said.

Community institutions at the centre

The participation of 85 community-based organisations underlines the role of collective action in preserving indigenous rice varieties and bringing rural products to larger markets. By linking community institutions with commercial opportunities, the initiative seeks to strengthen producer groups and support rural livelihoods.

Odisha’s participation at BIRC 2026 reflects an effort to turn its agricultural diversity into greater market visibility and enterprise development. By combining traditional rice heritage with improved product presentation and stronger buyer connections, the State aims to create new opportunities for farming communities while supporting the preservation of its indigenous agricultural resources.