Two-Day National Event on Agro-Biodiversity Conservation and Climate-Resilient Agriculture Begins in Bhubaneswar

Talking Point

TreeTake Network

A two-day national conclave on agro-biodiversity conservation and climate-resilient agriculture commenced at the Mayfair Convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, coinciding with the fifth annual Mandia Divas celebrations. Inaugurated by Governor Braj Mohan Ram, the event gathered key state and national leaders, including Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, ICAR Director General Dr Mangi Lal Jat, and Dr Soumya Swaminathan, alongside agricultural scientists and tribal seed conservators.

Key Highlights and Roadmap

• Millet Expansion Goals: Dr Mangi Lal Jat proposed expanding India's millet area from 179000 to 500000 hectares by 2047, targeting 800000 metric tonnes in production. He also highlighted Odisha's procurement of 75000 metric tonnes of ragi in 2024–25 and an enhanced target of 80000 metric tonnes for 2025–26.
• Seed Conservation: The event featured an exhibition showcasing Odisha's genetic reservoir of 163 finger millet landraces (such as Kalia and Bati) conserved by tribal communities in districts like Koraput and Malkangiri.
• Policy & Collaboration: Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo emphasised Odisha's role as the "Millet Hub of India" through Mandia Divas and the Shree Anna Abhiyan. Proposals were also introduced to partner with ICAR-IIMR to establish a dedicated Centre of Excellence on Millets in Bhubaneswar.
• Technical Sessions: The two-day program features five specialised tracks led by institutions like the MSSRF, FAO, and ICAR-IIMR, focusing on seed systems, nutrition, enterprise incubation, and natural farming.

Editor's Note
Odisha's model highlights that safeguarding 163 documented finger millet landraces and minor millets offers critical resilience against climate pressures. Reaching the 2047 roadmap will depend on empowering women's SHGs with processing equipment, formalising community seed banks, and maintaining public procurement for smallholder farmers.
 

(Editorial Verification Note: As per the official Press Information Bureau (PIB) dispatch and state government releases from November 10, 2026 report.)