Odisha’s Deputy Chief Ministers, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, jointly inaugurated the Gender Responsive Cell (GRC) at Krushi Bhawan in Bhubaneswar today.
This Cell, established in collaboration with the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), represents a significant step toward integrating gender equity into the state’s agricultural governance systems.
During the event, Deputy CM Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo emphasised that the launch of the GRC enhances Odisha’s commitment to inclusive agricultural development. “Odisha has consistently championed progressive agricultural reforms, and the establishment of this Gender Responsive Cell reflects our dedication to creating agricultural governance that is inclusive, evidence-based, and responsive to the needs of women farmers. Since women make up a substantial portion of our agricultural workforce, it is essential that they have equitable access to schemes, technologies, markets, and opportunities,” he stated.
Deputy CM Pravati Parida highlighted the significance of the GRC’s launch, especially as the world prepares to observe the UN International Year of the Woman Farmer in 2026. “As we approach this milestone, the introduction of an exclusive GRC illustrates our commitment to the women of our state. This initiative is particularly relevant as global attention is focused on the challenges faced by women farmers and the urgent need for more inclusive systems. By embedding gender responsiveness into our governance structures, the Cell will help address gaps in access, participation, and benefits,” she said.
Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Principal Secretary to the Government of Odisha, Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, mentioned that the GRC will systematically apply a gender perspective throughout planning, budgeting, service delivery, and monitoring.
The GRC has been designed as an innovative institutional mechanism within the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment (DAFE), aimed at strengthening gender equity throughout the governance process. The Cell will also function as an analytical hub, supporting policy assessments, gender-responsive budgeting, and data-driven decision-making while creating frameworks that can be adapted across various departments.
Dr Shahidur Rashid, IFPRI’s South Asia Regional Director, reiterated IFPRI’s support for the state as a long-term technical and knowledge partner.
The inauguration gathered state officials, researchers, development partners, and civil society organisations to work toward building an equitable, climate-resilient, and future-ready agricultural system. Representatives from the Gates Foundation, as well as officials from Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, FARD, and W&CD, attended the event.
