Japan, Odisha discuss partnership in smart agriculture and water management

Bhubaneswar, Oct 15 (UNI) An eight-member delegation from the Federal Government of Japan held discussions with the Odisha government on potential collaboration in smart agricultural technology, irrigation, water management, and wastewater treatment.

The delegation met Odisha’s Development Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary, Anu Garg, in Bhubaneswar.

Senior officials from Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), including Akifumi Sumizu, Director of the Commerce and Logistics Division, and Ryosuke Yamaguchi, Director of the Resident Trade Support Division, attended the meeting along with other representatives from Japan’s trade and industry sectors.
This was the delegation’s second visit to Odisha, following an earlier trip in August 2024.

The meeting gained added significance in the backdrop of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Japan in August 2025, during which he met Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to discuss bilateral cooperation in trade, business, and technology.

In September 2025, Odisha’s Development Commissioner also participated virtually in an event organised by the Indian Embassy in Japan to mark Etajima Day, where discussions centred on India–Japan collaboration in water resource development and the exchange of technical expertise.
Drawing on Japan’s global leadership in water management, Garg emphasised the need for developing climate-resilient water infrastructure, groundwater conservation, and coastal management systems in Odisha through joint initiatives.

According to official sources, extensive discussions were held on enhancing cooperation in economic and industrial development, digital innovation, and human resource development.
The Japanese delegation highlighted Japan’s technological advancements and ongoing technical training programs for Indian youth in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, forestry, and production-based industries.

The team also visited the Skill Development Centre in Bhubaneswar and expressed interest in strengthening cooperation with Odisha in skill enhancement and human resource development.
Later, the delegation visited the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) and the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment to explore further avenues for partnership.

The Development Commissioner appreciated Japan’s technical prowess and longstanding industrial experience, reiterating Odisha’s commitment to collaborating with Japan for the state’s sustainable development