Odisha to Host ‘Matsya-Pranee Samavesh Odisha’ to Boost Fisheries and Animal Husbandry

Bhubaneswar: In a bid to promote modern technology adoption in the fisheries and animal husbandry sector, the Fisheries & Animal Resources Development Department of Odisha is set to host the first-ever state-level event, ‘Matsya-Pranee Samavesh Odisha (MPSO-2024).’ The event aims to educate farmers, women self-help groups (WSHGs), and entrepreneurs on enhanced production and productivity in these crucial sectors.

Ranendra Pratap Swain, Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, Fisheries, and ARD, announced the initiative during a press conference at Krushi Bhawan Auditorium. Themed ‘Multiplying Farmers’ Income through Fisheries & Animal Husbandry,’ the three-day event will take place from February 16th to 18th, 2024, at Janata Maidan, Bhubaneswar.

Minister Swain unveiled the Logo, Mascot, Theme, and Theme song of MPSO-2024 and highlighted the significance of the Samavesh in fostering scientific farming practices. Over 6,000 farmers, entrepreneurs, and WSHG members from every block of the state are expected to attend, with around 200 individuals receiving awards for exemplary achievements in fish and livestock farming.

The event will feature 12 interactive panel discussions on fisheries, ARD, and agriculture, addressing topics such as dairy development, value addition, small animal sector contributions to income multiplication, and bio-floc and cage culture fish farming for entrepreneurship development.

‘MPSO-2024’ will include a ‘Ask the Minister’ program, providing farmers an opportunity to pose questions to the Minister, A&FE, and F&ARD. Additionally, over 100 exhibitors from across the country will showcase modern technology in fisheries, ARD, and agriculture sectors across 400 stalls in four hangars.

Live animal and fish demonstrations, including bio-floc technology, cage culture fish farming, high-yielding cross-bred cows, sex-sorted semen calves, and environmentally controlled poultry houses, will be presented in two open hangars.

The event’s open space exhibitions will showcase attractions like the Yuvraj Buffalo Bull, LED Tunnel, Virtual Reality Farm Tour, and a Dog Show. The cultural programs each evening will feature folk and classical music and dance performances.

To engage young minds, eloquence and quiz competitions will be held among veterinary, fisheries, and management college/polytechnic students, with the winners receiving awards during MPSO-2024.