Bhubaneswar: Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo has said the state government is committed to fulfilling the dreams of farmers and ensuring their needs are addressed through various government schemes.
Singh Deo, who is also the Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment and Pro‑Chancellor of the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), made the remarks while addressing the 65th Foundation Day celebration of OUAT at Krushi Shiksha Sadan on the university campus in Bhubaneswar Monday.
“The government is committed to fulfilling the dreams of farmers. Various schemes currently being implemented across sectors to meet the needs of the farmers will help in fulfilling their dreams,” Singh Deo said.
The Deputy CM also advised farmers not to panic over fertiliser availability, saying adequate fertiliser has been stocked to meet their requirements.
Speaking on the occasion, Fisheries and Animal Resources Development and MSME Minister Gokulananda Mallik said agriculture and farmers have an important role in building a prosperous and developed Odisha. He urged all stakeholders to work towards doubling farmers’ income by encouraging youth to take up agriculture and allied activities.
“Farmers are the architects in achieving the goal of a Viksit or prosperous Odisha. Therefore, the steps being taken by OUAT in this regard will be helpful to the farmers in the coming days,” Mallik said.
On the occasion, 37 publications brought out by OUAT were released. The university’s MIS and digital initiatives were also launched, while new infrastructure facilities, including Bidyarthi Bhawan, Udyamita Bhawan, Bhuvaneswari Girls’ Hostel and the Veterinary Campus, were inaugurated virtually.
Besides, 33 women agricultural entrepreneurs were felicitated for their contributions to the agriculture sector. Awards were also presented to individuals and institutions for excellence in various fields.
An exhibition and fair showcasing agricultural and allied products produced by farmers from different districts of Odisha was also organised as part of the Foundation Day celebrations.
IANS
