What's Happening?
Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, is scheduled to visit Odisha on November 10, 2025. The visit aims to boost farmers' income and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Chouhan will attend the 'Mandia Dibasa
(Millet Day)' program in Bhubaneswar, highlighting the government's efforts to enhance millet production and consumption. The event aligns with the declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets. Chouhan will also engage directly with farmers in the Sadar region of Cuttack district to address their challenges and gather insights on agricultural policies. Additionally, he will participate in a strategic meeting at the ICAR – Central Rice Research Institute in Cuttack, focusing on national agricultural initiatives.
Why It's Important?
This visit underscores the government's commitment to sustainable agriculture and rural development. By promoting millets, the government aims to enhance farmers' income and strengthen the rural economy. Millets are seen as a key crop for food and nutritional security, especially in the face of climate change and resource constraints. The direct engagement with farmers allows for a better understanding of their needs, ensuring that policies are effectively tailored to their realities. The strategic meeting at ICAR-CRRI is crucial for developing actionable strategies to improve productivity and sustainability in Indian agriculture, which is vital for the country's food security and economic stability.
What's Next?
Following the visit, recommendations are expected to be made for integrated approaches that combine technology, training, and market access for farmers. These strategies aim to address region-specific challenges such as soil health and water efficiency. The outcomes of the strategic meeting could lead to enhanced implementation of key national agricultural initiatives, potentially influencing future policy directions. Chouhan's continued engagement in agricultural initiatives, including his next visit to Vijayawada, indicates ongoing efforts to support and develop the agricultural sector across different regions.
