Bhubaneswar: Odisha and the United Nations have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding development partnerships, with a focus on agriculture, renewable energy, and sustainable growth, during a high-level meeting held at Lok Seva Bhawan on Monday.
UN Resident Coordinator in India Stefan Priesner called on Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo to discuss avenues for strengthening cooperation across key sectors. Senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary (Energy) Vishal Kumar Dev and Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Agriculture) Sachin Ramchandra Jadhav, were also present.
During the interaction, the Deputy Chief Minister highlighted Odisha’s contribution to India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, underlining progress in agriculture, industrial growth, and renewable energy. He emphasised that agriculture remains a priority sector, with sustained efforts towards doubling farmers’ income, promoting climate-resilient practices, and strengthening value chains.
Tourism and heritage conservation also featured prominently in the discussions. The state’s rich cultural assets, including UNESCO World Heritage sites and potential destinations such as Ranipur-Jharial and Harishankar, were identified as key areas for promoting sustainable tourism while preserving Odisha’s unique traditions.
Both sides explored opportunities for enhanced collaboration in advancing renewable energy, boosting rural livelihoods, and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Priesner appreciated Odisha’s strides in agriculture and energy transition and expressed the UN’s willingness to support the state through technology transfer, capacity building, and inclusive development initiatives.
