Odisha Launches Kharif 2026 Contingency Plan to Counter El Niño Impact
Bhubaneswar: With the India Meteorological Department forecasting below‑normal rainfall due to El Niño conditions, the Odisha government has unveiled a comprehensive contingency plan for the upcoming Kharif season.
Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo chaired a high‑level virtual meeting to finalise strategies aimed at safeguarding farmers against potential crop losses.
Key measures include early distribution of certified seeds by the Odisha State Seeds Corporation, prioritising short‑duration paddy, pulses, oilseeds, and millets.
Buffer seed reserves will be maintained for emergency supply, particularly in remote districts.
To ensure fertiliser security, MARKFED, PACS, and LAMPCS will oversee last‑mile delivery, while district collectors will enforce anti‑hoarding measures and promote balanced nutrient use through Soil Health Cards.
Crop insurance coverage under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana will be expanded, with the state bearing the full premium for farmers owning up to two hectares.
Accelerated registration for PM‑KISAN and CM‑KISAN schemes will further strengthen farmer support.
Agro‑advisories from OUAT and Krishi Vigyan Kendras will provide real‑time guidance on pest management and dry‑spell preparedness.
Awareness campaigns using LED screens and field officers will ensure farmers are equipped with timely information.
Senior officials, including Agriculture Secretary Sachin Ramchandra Jadhav, Cooperation Secretary Rajesh Pravakar Patil, OUAT Vice Chancellor Dr Pravat Kumar Roul, and IMD Director Dr Manorama Mohapatra, participated in the meeting.
