Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Government has stepped up its focus on agricultural mechanization, with plans to organize a series of Farm Mechanization Melas across the state between November 2025 and January 2026. The initiative, aimed at transforming farming practices and empowering farmers, will feature 4 Regional Melas, 26 District-level Melas, and 28 Sub-divisional Melas.
Presently, Odisha’s farm power availability stands at 2.61 kW per hectare (2024-25), with a roadmap to achieve 3.50 kW/ha by 2036 and 4.50 kW/ha by 2047. For the current financial year, the state has earmarked ₹540 crore in subsidies to distribute farm machinery worth ₹1,200 crore. General category farmers will benefit from a 40% subsidy, while SC/ST, women, and small and marginal farmers will receive 50%. Women SHGs will enjoy 75% subsidy, and FRA patta holders will get 90%.
To improve transparency and efficiency, Odisha has rolled out several digital solutions, including online applications via Go Sugam, Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of subsidies, e-RUPI vouchers up to ₹50,000 for upfront payments, and SUIC codes for unique identification and traceability of implements. These steps are designed to simplify farmers’ access to modern machinery while curbing delays and leakages.
Addressing the meeting with farm machinery manufacturers, Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Principal Secretary, Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, highlighted that the upcoming melas will serve as vital platforms connecting farmers with manufacturers, dealers, self-help groups, banks, and government agencies. The events will feature live demonstrations of advanced equipment, opportunities for direct purchase, and after-sale service support.
Shubham Saxena, Director of Agriculture, urged manufacturers to actively participate and ensure adequate stock for on-the-spot sales during the melas. He also emphasized passing on the full benefit of GST reduction to farmers.
“Odisha is determined to make farming more modern, profitable, and attractive for future generations by reducing drudgery, addressing labour shortages, and ensuring timely agricultural operations through mechanization,” Dr. Padhee said.
The meeting was also attended by Chief Engineer Bishnuprasad Mishra and other senior officials, who underscored Odisha’s commitment to strengthening mechanized farming and ensuring farmers’ access to the latest technology.
