The Odisha Government organised a programme on Sunday to distribute certified seed potato under the State Sector Scheme “Development of Potato, Vegetable & Spices” at Jagamohanpur, Keutapada, and Dhurushia in the Athagarh block of Cuttack district.
Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo attended the event as the Chief Guest and personally handed over seed potatoes to farmers. The initiative aims to promote quality seed availability, strengthen potato production, and support farmers with improved planting material for the upcoming Rabi season.
🥔🌱 Inaugurated the Potato Seed Plantation Programme at Athagarh Block, Cuttack.
This initiative marks a vital step in strengthening Odisha’s agricultural resilience and diversifying crop production. By empowering our farmers with quality seeds and sustainable practices, we… pic.twitter.com/im7l9WA8cG
— Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo (Modiji Ka Parivar) (@KVSinghDeo1) November 30, 2025
Addressing the gathering, Singh Deo emphasised the state’s focus on increasing potato productivity, reducing dependence on imports, and strengthening the agricultural supply chain. Furthermore, he reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting farmers through various schemes and interventions.
At the outset, guests and participants listened to the Man ki Baat address by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Director of Horticulture Kalunge Gorakh Waman welcomed the gathering and highlighted the importance of distributing high-quality seeds to boost productivity and ensure farmer welfare. Meanwhile, Athagarh MLA Ranendra Pratap Swain encouraged farmers to adopt high-yielding varieties and modern cultivation practices for enhanced production.
Later, OSSC Managing Director Niti Ranjan Sen elaborated on the corporation’s efforts to ensure the timely supply of certified seed potatoes across the state. So far, officials have dispatched 1,40,000 quintals and distributed 91,633 quintals among farmers in different districts. In Cuttack district alone, 800 hectares will be covered under potato cultivation during Rabi, including 270 hectares in Athagarh subdivision.
Following the formal addresses, officials carried out seed distribution and demonstrated planting activities for farmers. Collector and District Magistrate Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde, Joint Director of Horticulture Dr Prafulla Kumar Bhanja, Deputy Director Subrat Kumar Chand, and other horticulture officers actively participated in the programme.
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