Odisha inks two MoUs to boost agriculture infra, improve market access for farmers

The Odisha government on Monday signed two key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) at Lok Seva Bhavan in Bhubaneswar with an aim to enhance agricultural infrastructure and improve market access for farmers across the state.

The first MoU was signed among the Directorate of Horticulture, Department of Agriculture & Farmers' Empowerment (DA&FE), and M/S Cold Chain Solutions for the operation and management of the Integrated Pack House at Govindpur, Dhenkanal.

This initiative is expected to facilitate post-harvest management, streamline procurement processes, and ensure better price realization for farmers.

The second MoU was signed between the Directorate of Horticulture, DA&FE, Mission Shakti, and Professional Assistance for Development Action (PRADAN).

This agreement focuses on expanding the Agriculture Production Cluster (APC) initiative, which aims to boost the livelihoods of Women Self-Help Group (WSHG) members by promoting synchronized, market-linked agricultural production.

Expansion of Agriculture Production Cluster Initiative

The APC initiative, which began in 73 blocks across 14 districts, has now been expanded to cover 100 backward blocks in 16 districts, including Kotia in Pottangi.

The initiative integrates multiple government schemes under the Directorate of Horticulture, Directorate of Agriculture, Mission Shakti, Odisha Livelihoods Mission (OLM), and other departments to create sustainable agricultural growth.

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Under the newly signed MoU, 695 Producer Groups (PGs) and 27 Producer Companies (PCs) will be established in 27 additional blocks across 11 districts, with an estimated budget of Rs 6,205.8 lakh.

Notably, the efforts aim to double the income of small and marginal farmers by promoting improved farming practices and livestock rearing.

Dhenkanal Pack House to Strengthen Market Access

The Dhenkanal Fruits and Vegetables Marketing Company Ltd. (DFVMCL), formed under the Odisha Horticulture Development Society (OHDS), will oversee the Integrated Pack House's operations.

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The facility aims to ensure smooth procurement of agricultural produce from farmers, cooperatives, and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) at competitive market prices.

By improving cold chain logistics and streamlining market linkages, the initiative seeks to minimize post-harvest losses and provide farmers with greater financial stability.