Agriculture Department Gears Up for Impending Rainfall in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: With rainfall expected across parts of Odisha due to the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon, the Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment Department convened a high-level preparatory meeting to assess potential impacts and guide farmers through the changing weather conditions.

Principal Secretary Arabinda Kumar Padhee chaired the meeting, which included key stakeholders such as Shubham Saxena (Director of Agriculture), Manorama Mohapatra (Director, IMD), and Prasannajit Mishra (Dean, OUAT), along with senior officials from various divisions.

While the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed no cyclone formation at present, it warned of scattered rainfall and possible thunderstorms in coastal districts. Padhee urged farmers to remain alert, follow IMD advisories, and avoid misinformation circulating on social media.

Odisha has received 100% normal rainfall this year, boosting expectations of a strong crop yield across districts. To support farmers, the department has released advisory guidelines and activated helpline number 155333 for real-time assistance.

Farmers are also encouraged to contact their nearest Regional Agricultural Research Centre or Agriculture Officer for localised guidance.

This proactive approach aims to safeguard agricultural productivity and ensure timely interventions amid evolving weather patterns.