Bhubaneswar: The Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment in Odisha is set to organize the International Symposium on Shree Anna & Forgotten Foods (ISSFF) at Lok Seva Bhavan, Bhubaneswar, on November 10 and 11. The event, themed “Celebrating Shree Anna & Agricultural Heritage of Odisha,” will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and aims to underscore the critical role of millets and forgotten foods in enhancing food security and promoting sustainable agriculture.
Forgotten food crops are increasingly recognized for their potential to address climate change, support sustainable farming practices, and improve nutritional standards. Many of these crops exhibit resilience against drought and pests, making them well-suited for sustainable agriculture. The rich agricultural heritage of Odisha is intrinsically linked to these traditional foods, which thrive in local conditions with minimal external inputs.
In a media interaction, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment emphasized the need to incorporate millets and other forgotten foods into the local diet. He stated, “By doing so, we can safeguard Odisha’s agricultural heritage, support our farmers and tribal communities, and promote healthier lifestyles.”
The ISSFF 2024 is expected to gather a diverse array of stakeholders, including Women’s Self-Help Groups (WSHGs), Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), policymakers, MSMEs, research organizations, health institutions, hotel associations, chef associations, and students. The symposium will develop a roadmap for promoting Shree Anna and neglected crops while focusing on innovative and sustainable agricultural practices, agro-biodiversity conservation, marketing opportunities, and policy perspectives.
High-level dignitaries from national and international organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), World Food Programme (WFP), and various agricultural research institutions will also participate, making this a unique event organized by the Government of Odisha.
The symposium will feature 11 sessions covering various topics related to the cultivation, processing, and promotion of millets and neglected crops. Participants will explore how Odisha can emerge as the millet hub of India, address global challenges linked to forgotten foods, and learn about the export potential and industry engagement opportunities for millets. There will be dedicated sessions on processing techniques, organic cultivation practices, and community narratives, celebrating the cultural significance of forgotten foods through shared stories of food, art, and culinary heritage.
In addition to the discussions, the event will showcase nine stalls featuring a variety of neglected crops, millets, pulses, seeds, leafy vegetables, and innovative farming tools, providing attendees with a hands-on opportunity to engage with traditional and modern agricultural practices.
Several publications will be launched during the event, including an awareness booklet on the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act (PPVFRA), guidelines for the revival of forgotten foods, and a recipe booklet titled “Forgotten Flavours – Culinary Treasures of Odisha.” These resources aim to equip farmers and communities with the knowledge and tools necessary for sustainable and profitable agricultural practices.
The Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment has collaborated with esteemed organizations and institutes, including FAO, the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), and others, as well as various government departments such as Mission Shakti, MSME, and Health & Family Welfare, to ensure the success of this initiative.
Recognizing outstanding contributions to the cultivation of millets and neglected crops, the symposium will present awards in several categories, including Best Millet Farmer, Best Neglected Crop Custodian Farmer, and Best Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Special recognition will also honor women custodians of traditional recipes, highlighting their vital role in preserving Odisha’s culinary heritage.
Odisha is the first state in India to host such a unique event focused on promoting forgotten foods and neglected crops. The state has already been recognized for its significant work on millets through the Shree Anna Abhiyan scheme. Officials are optimistic that the same success will follow the initiative for forgotten foods and neglected crops, further enhancing Odisha’s reputation in agricultural innovation and sustainability.