ORMAS Wins BIRC Global Excellence Award 2026 for Promoting Rural Entrepreneurship and Traditional Rice Heritage
The Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS) has been conferred with the prestigious BIRC Global Excellence Award 2026 in recognition of its outstanding contribution to rural entrepreneurship, market expansion, and the promotion of Odisha’s traditional rice varieties on the global stage.
The award acknowledges ORMAS’s leadership in strengthening rural-market linkages and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for rural producers across the state.
Operating under the Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department of Odisha, ORMAS has been instrumental in facilitating direct market access, branding, value addition, and product promotion for farmers and producer groups.
Congratulating the organisation on the achievement, Rabi Narayan Naik, Odisha’s Minister for Panchayati Raj, Rural Development and Drinking Water, said the honour reflects the dedication and relentless efforts of the ORMAS team.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering rural producers and connecting them with national and international markets.
The award was presented during the ongoing Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
During the conference, ORMAS showcased 15 traditional varieties of paddy and rice collected from eight districts of Odisha, highlighting the state’s rich agricultural heritage before a global audience.
According to ORMAS, the initiative directly benefits 3,695 members associated with 85 community-based organisations, helping strengthen rural livelihoods through improved market opportunities and value-chain development.
Receiving the award on behalf of the organisation, Dr Monica Priyadarshini, CEO of ORMAS, described the recognition as a proud moment for Odisha’s agricultural heritage and rural communities.
She reiterated ORMAS’s commitment to expanding economic opportunities for farmers, artisans, and producer groups across the state.
The recognition further reinforces Odisha’s growing reputation in promoting sustainable rural development while preserving and showcasing its traditional agricultural resources on international platforms.
