Odisha Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo chaired a high-level virtual meeting today to roll out a robust Kharif 2026 contingency plan addressing IMD’s forecast of below-normal monsoon and El Niño conditions.
Shri Singh Deo instructed all departments, district administrations, and research institutions to coordinate closely to protect farmers’ interests. He emphasised proactive seed management, fertiliser security, crop insurance, and field-level preparedness.
Under the seed management plan, the Odisha State Seeds Corporation will distribute certified seeds by early June, prioritising remote districts. Authorities will focus on short-duration paddy, pulses, oilseeds, and millets for rain-deficient areas. District teams will promote crop diversification and maintain buffer reserves for emergency supply.
For fertiliser security, MARKFED, PACS, and LAMPCS will ensure last-mile delivery. Collectors will enforce strict anti-hoarding measures and monitor balanced nutrient management through Soil Health Cards.
The state will expand crop insurance coverage under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, with Odisha bearing the full premium for farmers owning up to two hectares. Districts will accelerate farmer registration to enable access to PM-KISAN and CM-KISAN benefits.
Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology will issue real-time agro-advisories and pest management guidance through Krishi Vigyan Kendras. LED screens will display crop advisories, and field officers will conduct awareness drives on dry-spell preparedness.
Senior officials, including Agriculture Secretary Sachin Ramchandra Jadhav, Cooperation Secretary Rajesh Pravakar Patil, OUAT Vice Chancellor Dr Pravat Kumar Roul, and IMD Director Dr Manorama Mohapatra, attended the meeting.
