Odisha Wins Best State for Agriculture at National Conclave

Key Highlights:

• Odisha honoured with Agriculture Leadership Award at 16th National Conclave.

• Award received by Deputy CM Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo in New Delhi.

• Agriculture contributes 19% to GSVA and employs 49% of Odisha’s workforce.

• Odisha is 4th largest rice supplier and top tractor-selling state.

• Over 121 MT of horticulture produce exported globally.

• Top ranks in India for sweet potato, fruit production, brinjal, cabbage, cashew, and more.

Odisha has been honoured as the Best State for Agriculture at the 16th Agriculture Leadership Conclave held in New Delhi. The state received the prestigious Agriculture Leadership Award, presented by the Agriculture Today Group, a respected media organisation dedicated to the agriculture sector.

The award was received by Odisha's Deputy Chief Minister, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo,who is also the Minister of Agriculture, Farmers Empowerment, and Energy. This achievement highlights Odisha's consistent efforts to improve agriculture and support farmers across the state.

Grand Award Ceremony with Prominent Guests

The award was presented in the presence of several prominent personalities, including:

• Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal

• Former Chief Justice of India, Justice P. Sathasivam, who also serves as the Chairman of the Award Committee

• Delegates from countries such as the Netherlands, Brazil, Argentina, and Canada

• Ministers and representatives from various Indian states

Representatives from corporate sectors, research organisations, agricultural machinery, and pesticide industries were also present, showing the wide reach and growing importance of the agriculture sector.

Also Read: Agriculture Department Releases Advisory for Better Kharif Pulse Yields

Deputy CM Dedicates Award to Odisha’s Farmers

Deputy CM Singh Deo expressed pride and gratitude at receiving the award. He said,

“I dedicate this award to the annadatas (food providers) of Odisha. Their hard work, dedication, and innovation made this possible.”

He also thanked the Agriculture Today Group for recognising Odisha’s efforts and assured that the state is working towards becoming a model for sustainable agriculture in India.

Odisha’s Agricultural Progress Gains National Attention

Odisha has made significant progress in the field of agriculture, thanks to strong policies, government support, and continuous investments in rural development.

In FY 2024–25:

• Agriculture and allied sectors contributed 19% to Odisha’s Gross State Value Added (GSVA)

• The growth rate of 3.3% in this sector was higher than the national average for the past five years

• Agriculture continues to be the largest employment source, engaging 49% of the state's workforce

This reflects the importance of farming in Odisha and its impact on the livelihoods of millions.

Focus on Modern Techniques and Climate-Resilient Farming

The Odisha government has focused on:

• Promoting crop diversification

• Encouraging climate-resilient agriculture

• Supporting modern farming techniques

• Increasing the use of farm machinery and technology

• Training farmers to improve productivity and income

This proactive approach has helped farmers adapt to changing conditions and improve overall yields.

Odisha Achieves Big in Rice and Farm Machinery

In 2023–24, Odisha produced:

• 115.39 lakh metric tonnes of rice

• Equal to 174.83 lakh metric tonnes of paddy

• Making it the 4th largest rice supplier to the Food Corporation of India (FCI)

Additionally, Odisha recorded the highest tractor sales in the country last year. The farm power input reached 2.60 kilowatts per hectare, with plans to raise it to 3.5 kilowatts per hectare by 2036.

Odisha’s Horticulture Products Reach Global Markets

Odisha is expanding its footprint in horticulture exports, with 121.82 metric tonnes of fruits and vegetables exported to the Middle East and Europe in 2023–24.

Exported items included:

• Dragon fruit

• Cashew nuts

• Mangoes

• Various vegetables

Exports were facilitated via Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar) and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (Kolkata).

The government is working hard to connect farmers with international markets to secure better prices for their produce.

Odisha’s National Rankings in Crop Production

Odisha has ranked highly in several crop categories across India:

These achievements reflect the state’s diverse and high-quality agricultural output.

A Proud Moment for Odisha and Indian Agriculture

The recognition of Odisha as the Best State for Agriculture is not just a win for the state, but also a big moment for Indian agriculture. It shows how thoughtful policies, farmer empowerment, and technological adoption can lead to remarkable progress.

The award at the National Agriculture Leadership Conclave reaffirms Odisha’s commitment to sustainable growth, food security, and farmer welfare.

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CMV360 Says

Odisha’s recognition as the Best State for Agriculture highlights its strong policies, innovative farming practices, and commitment to farmer welfare. With increasing productivity, global exports, and modernisation, the state sets an example for others. This award is a proud moment for Odisha’s hardworking farmers and reaffirms the state's vision of becoming a national leader in sustainable and inclusive agriculture.