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Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati raised critical questions on Sunday about the State's performance in aquaculture, despite its strong natural base and resources.
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While attending the 64th Foundation Day of OUAT (Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology) in Bhubaneswar, the Governor compared Odisha with neighbouring Andhra Pradesh, questioning why Odisha has not emerged as a leading fish-producing state like Andhra, despite having a similar ecological advantage.
“Andhra Pradesh has become the top fish-producing state in the country. Odisha has a vast base too—then why have not we matched up? Why has neither the State government nor OUAT authorities have taken focused initiatives in this direction?” the Governor questioned during his speech, prompting a much-needed reflection on policy and implementation in the fisheries sector.
Responding to the occasion, Deputy CM and Agriculture Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo announced several expansion plans for agricultural and allied education in the State. A new OUAT campus will be established in Sambalpur, with a team soon to conduct a site visit.
New agricultural colleges are proposed in Mayurbhanj and Berhampur. Similarly, a fisheries and animal husbandry college is also being planned for Sonepur.
These steps, officials say, will not only expand the academic reach of OUAT but also help boost sectoral development in agriculture, aquaculture, and livestock management in Odisha.
“When we were having a review of the fishery sector, it was informed that 40 percent of the domestic consumption of fishery products in Odisha is being imported from other states. Therefore, there is an urgent need to increase the fish productivity,” the Odisha Governor expressed while addressing a huge gathering.
Reported By: Simpul
