Bhubaneswar: The second and concluding day of the 5th edition of Mandia Dibasa (Millet Day) concluded on a high note here, drawing policymakers, agricultural experts, researchers, and progressive farmers from across the region.
Organised by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, Government of Odisha, the two-day convention centred around the theme “Community-Led Seed System and Agrobiodiversity for Resilient Food Systems.”
Addressing the gathering, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment department Sachin Ramchandra Jadhav laid special emphasis on the integration of natural farming, the acceleration of grassroots-level innovation, and the steady, sustainable growth of Odisha’s expanding nutri-cereal economy.
The valedictory day featured three comprehensive technical sessions designed to bridge traditional wisdom with modern enterprise.
- Natural Farming and Millets: Organised by the Directorate of Agriculture & Food Production, this session focused on reviving traditional agricultural knowledge for long-term ecological and food sustainability.
- Pioneers of Grassroots Innovation: Also hosted by the Directorate, this segment spotlighted inspiring success stories and practical achievements of local farmers and dynamic agri-entrepreneurs.
- Millet-Based Economy of Odisha: Conducted by the Indian Institute of Millets Research, the final session delved into enterprise development, value chain expansion, and strengthening robust market linkages.
A major highlight of the concluding ceremony was the official release of the book, “Improved Cultivation Practices of Millets.” This newly launched publication is poised to serve as an invaluable handbook for farmers and agricultural stakeholders, offering actionable insights into optimised cultivation techniques.
The valedictory proceedings were graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Dr Poma Tudu, Director of Agriculture & Food Production; Shri Subrat Kumar Panda, Director of Soil Conservation & Watershed Development; and Shri Arun Kumar Behera, Director of IMAGE.
In a fitting tribute to grassroots dedication, progressive farmers, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and inspiring women-led enterprises were felicitated for their exceptional contributions toward promoting millets and championing agricultural development throughout Odisha.