Odisha inks two MoUs to boost horticultural expansion in state

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) at Lokseva Bhavan, Bhubaneswar, aiming to improve agricultural infrastructure and provide a better market for farmers. The first MoU was signed between the Directorate of Horticulture, Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment (DA&FE), and M/S Cold Chain Solutions. Its main focus will be on the operation, maintenance, and management of an integrated pack house in Govindpur, Dhenkanal. This initiative will provide farmers with storage facilities, post-harvest management, and a better market so that they can get a better price for their crops.

The second MoU was inked between the Directorate of Horticulture, DA&FE, Mission Shakti, and Professional Assistance for Development Action (PRADAN), aiming to empower Women Self-Help Group (WSHG) members by expanding the Agriculture Production Cluster (APC) initiative.

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The MoUs were signed in the presence of Deputy Chief Ministers Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, along with Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra. Senior officials, including Principal Secretary of Agriculture Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, were also present on this occasion.

The APC got underway in 73 blocks across 14 districts in the state. Therefore, it is likely to expand in more districts and blocks. This expansion is likely to help 695 producer groups and 27 producer companies with a budget of Rs 6,205.8 lakh.

Both the agreements are expected to provide better market facility to farmers and improve productivity, helping farmers to earn extra money. This will be a remarkable step as far as the boost of Odisha’s horticulture is concerned.