In an initiative to build climate resilience, enhance productivity, and promote crop diversification in drought-prone districts, the state’s Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment (DAFE) on Friday signed an MoU and launched the Odisha Agriculture Drought Mitigation Programme (OADMP) under the National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF).
With technical support from the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture, and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), the Rs 141.50 crore initiative will benefit around 24,000 households, strengthening their livelihoods and reducing migration.
Laying emphasis on proactive drought management, Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo stated that building resilience is essential for protecting livelihoods and strengthening the rural economy.
Calling upon all stakeholders to work in convergence, Singh Deo said measures in this regard should be effectively implemented on the ground.
Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary, DA&FE, highlighted the science-led planning, convergence, and community ownership in the Odisha Agriculture Drought Mitigation Programme. He also said that this is the first-ever drought mitigation programme funded by the NDMA.
The programme focuses on science-led planning, convergence, and community ownership. Dr Pravat Kumar Roul, Vice Chancellor, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Shubhranshu Mishra, Additional Secretary, representatives from NDMA, OSDMA, and IMD, scientists from KVK, and senior officials also graced the occasion.