Odisha’s Deputy CM Emphasizes Cotton’s Role as ‘White Gold’ for Farmers

 Bhubaneswar: Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, highlighted the transformative impact of cotton cultivation on Odisha’s agricultural sector during a workshop held at Krushi Bhavan on Monday.

Addressing a gathering of farmers, scientists, and agricultural officials, Singh Deo described cotton as the “white gold” of Odisha, emphasizing its importance in strengthening both the state’s agricultural economy and the financial well-being of farmers.

According to an official press release, Odisha, which supplies 40% of the cotton consumed domestically, cultivates the crop across 239,000 hectares, primarily in the districts of Rayagada, Kalahandi, and Bolangir, which together account for 85% of the state’s cotton production.

The state is known for its high-quality, long-fiber cotton, branded globally as “Kasturi Cotton,” which has earned a prominent place in international textile markets.

In his remarks, Deputy CM Singh Deo outlined the state government’s support measures for cotton farmers, including direct benefit transfer (DBT) subsidies on agricultural inputs, fertilizers, and pesticides. He noted the expansion of skill development training programs and the establishment of mandis in strategic locations to streamline the sale and distribution of cotton.

“Profitable cotton cultivation has given a new direction to the lives of farmers in Odisha,” Singh Deo stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to empowering farmers through increased income and market opportunities.

The event marked the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment and the World Food Programme, a partnership designed to further enhance cotton production and support rural development initiatives.

During the workshop, Singh Deo also felicitated several farmers who have demonstrated exceptional success in cotton cultivation.

Prominent attendees included Agriculture Director Prem Chandra Chaudhary, Horticulture Director Nikhil Pawan Kalyan, the Vice Chancellor of the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), the Director of Cotton Corporation of India (CCI), senior officers from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), and leading agricultural scientists.

The workshop’s collaborative focus aims to continue Odisha’s progress in sustainable and profitable cotton farming, benefiting farmers and advancing the state’s reputation as a leader in quality cotton production.