Bhubaneswar, Aug 24: The Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) has played a crucial role in advancing agriculture within the state by developing 484 new crop varieties. This contribution has been instrumental in making Odisha a surplus state in rice production, said Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi during the 63rd Foundation Day celebration of OUAT on Saturday.
During the event, Chief Minister Majhi inaugurated a newly constructed auditorium on the university campus, which has a seating capacity of 1,008.
The Chief Minister emphasized that self-sufficiency in rice is not enough and that Odisha must also boost the production of oilseeds, vegetables, fish, eggs, fruits, and flowers to achieve true self-reliance. He noted that past government initiatives for crops like potato, onion, and jackfruit had not been successful and stressed the importance of self-reliance, highlighting the significant role that OUAT plays in this effort.
He urged OUAT scientists to develop new knowledge and skills, particularly in producing high-yielding seeds. Majhi also referenced the leadership of the Prime Minister, under whom the country is making strides towards becoming a developed nation.
He acknowledged the Prime Minister's efforts in honoring farmers and implementing various schemes for their benefit. He mentioned that, inspired by the Prime Minister, the Odisha government has launched several initiatives to support farmers, including implementing the CM Kisan scheme alongside the PM Kisan scheme. Additionally, he announced that all farmers in the state would be covered under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana.
Describing this year’s agriculture budget as groundbreaking, Majhi pointed out that it has been increased by 36 percent to ₹33,919 crore, incorporating the 'Samruddha Krushak Yojana'.
He also mentioned that steps have been taken to establish at least one cold storage facility in each of the state’s 58 subdivisions, with a goal of having a cold storage facility in every block within the next five years.
