Odisha Wins Best State Award at India International Water Week 2026

New Delhi/Bhubaneswar: Odisha has received the Best Award in the State Category at the 9th India International Water Week (IIWW) 2026, where the state showcased its approach to integrating water management with agriculture, irrigation and community participation.

Held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi under the theme “Climate Resilient Water Management,” the event saw Odisha participate as the Partner State.

The Odisha Pavilion presented the state’s integrated approach to water management, highlighting water conservation and distribution, efficient utilisation of water, agricultural innovation and community participation. It showcased how irrigation infrastructure and farm-level innovations can be combined to strengthen livelihoods and improve resilience among farmers and communities.

The Odisha Integrated Irrigation Project for Climate Resilient Agriculture (OIIPCRA) was among the key attractions at the pavilion. The project demonstrated the restoration of minor irrigation systems along with climate-resilient agricultural practices such as direct-seeded rice cultivation, green manuring, crop diversification and integrated rice-fish farming.

Visitors were also introduced to the use of agricultural machinery through Custom Hiring Centres, which was showcased as part of the broader effort to support farmers and improve agricultural practices.

A model of the Kanupur Irrigation Project highlighted Odisha’s major irrigation infrastructure and its approach to managing water availability according to local requirements.

The pavilion also featured a Pani Panchayat display, highlighting the role of farmers and local institutions in water-use planning and irrigation management. A Best Practices Corner and interactive activities were organised to raise awareness about water conservation and community-based approaches to managing water resources.

The state’s recognition at IIWW 2026 comes as Odisha continues to link water infrastructure with agricultural needs and community participation. As the Partner State, Odisha also used the international platform to share its experiences and gain insights into approaches being adopted elsewhere to address water-related challenges arising from climate change.