Bhubaneswar, 30/01/2025: The second day of the Utkarsh Odisha-Make in Odisha Conclave 2025 witnessed an engaging session at Janata Maidan, Bhubaneswar, focusing on the theme “Agri and Food Processing Industry – An Ecosystem for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth in Odisha.” The session brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs, emphasizing the state’s potential in agriculture, allied sectors, and food processing.
During the session, a total of 17 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, with investors committing to invest approximately Rs 1,279 crore in agriculture, food processing, and allied sectors. These investments are expected to significantly enhance Odisha’s agrarian ecosystem, boost employment, and promote sustainable growth in rural areas.
Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, highlighted the pivotal role of agriculture in building a prosperous Odisha and achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat. He stressed the importance of promoting organic farming, climate-resilient agriculture, and a robust food processing industry. Shri Singh Deo encouraged entrepreneurs to invest in Odisha, emphasizing that the state offers ample opportunities for growth in the agricultural and allied sectors, positioning Odisha as a model of sustainable development.
Echoing this sentiment, Minister of Fisheries and Animal Research Development and MSME, Shri Gokulananda Mallick, lauded Odisha’s achievements in agriculture, particularly in the cultivation of vegetables and spices. He underscored that strategic investment in the sector could further strengthen the state’s agrarian potential and enhance its competitiveness at national and international levels.
Minister of Panchayati Raj, Drinking Water, and Rural Development, Shri Rabinarayan Naik, praised the initiatives of the Odisha Livelihood Mission (ORMAS) in driving rural economic growth. He urged private sector participation to expand the reach and impact of these programs, ensuring greater financial empowerment and livelihood opportunities for rural communities.
During the session, several key initiatives were highlighted. A brochure on cold storage was unveiled, reflecting the state government’s plan to implement 58 new cold storage facilities, enhancing post-harvest management and reducing food wastage. Additionally, a coffee table book on Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) was released to showcase their contributions to Odisha’s agriculture sector.
The session also emphasized the Mukhyamantri Krushi Udyog Yojana (MKUY), under which entrepreneurs can avail up to 50% subsidy for establishing agricultural enterprises, further incentivizing investment in the sector.
The session commenced with a welcome address by Principal Secretary of Agriculture, Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, and concluded with a vote of thanks from Director of Agriculture, Shri Prem Chandra Chaudhary. The event was attended by Director of Horticulture, Mr. Nikhil Pawan Kalyan, Director of Industries, Dr. Prashant Kumar Reddy, and other senior officials, creating a collaborative platform to advance sustainable growth and inclusive development in Odisha’s agricultural and food processing sectors.
