The Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment (DAFE), Government of Odisha, launched the Odisha Agriculture Drought Mitigation Programme (OADMP) under the National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF) during the inaugural ceremony of Krushi Odisha 2026.
The ₹141.50 crore programme will operate in Komna (Nuapada), Kosagumuda (Nabarangpur), and Raruan (Mayurbhanj) blocks. It targets smallholder, marginal, tribal, women, and youth farmers. The initiative builds climate resilience, enhances productivity, and promotes crop diversification. Around 24,000 households will benefit, strengthening livelihoods and reducing migration.
ICRISAT, ICAR-CRIDA, and IRRI will provide technical support. Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo emphasised proactive drought management and urged stakeholders to work in convergence for effective ground-level implementation. He said resilience protects livelihoods and strengthens the rural economy.
Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary, DA&FE, highlighted science-led planning, convergence, and community ownership as the pillars of OADMP. He noted that this marks the first-ever drought mitigation programme funded by NDMA.
Dr Pravat Kumar Roul, Vice Chancellor of OUAT, Shri Shubhranshu Mishra, Additional Secretary, representatives from NDMA, OSDMA, IMD, scientists from KVK, and senior officials attended the workshop. Shri Sangram Keshari Pattanayak, Joint Director, DA&FE, delivered the vote of thanks.
The programme reflects Odisha’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and climate resilience. It positions the state as a leader in proactive drought management and science-driven farming solutions.
