Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Friday called for more participation of women farm entrepreneurs to strengthen the agriculture sector.
Inaugurating the Krushi Odisha-2024 at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar, the chief minister said the theme of this year’s event “Celebrating Women in Agriculture” not only respects the contribution of the women to the sector but also aims at encouraging their participation in more number.
“It is time for our women to come forward to take active part in agriculture. There are ample opportunities for them in the sector. They should take advantage of Chief Minister’s Agri-Entrepreneur Scheme, Millet Mission, Coffee Mission and others,” he said.
Stating that empowerment of women strengthens not only a family but also the entire society, Naveen said it is the top priority of his government. They have been involved in all aspects of development through Mission Sakti., he added.
Welcoming the agriculture scientists and experts at the meet, he said they have an important role in growth of the agriculture and farmers.
The chief minister laid foundation stone for Krushi Udyog Bhawan and new campus of IMAGE on the occasion. The permanent campus of the IMAGE is coming up at Siripur in the city at a cost of Rs 113 crore. It will serve as a centre of excellence for growth of agriculture. Similarly, the Krushi Udyog Bhawan will be constructed at Nayapalli at a cost of Rs 28 crore.
Naveen felicitated eminent agriculture scientist Dr Swati Nayak and awarded 10 farmers for their contribution to promote modern farm equipment. He also launched a portal for farm loan of Odisha State Cooperative Bank,
Agriculture Minister Ranendra Pratap Swain and Women and Child Development Minister Basanti Hembram also spoke. Development Commissioner Anu Garg, and other senior officers were present at the event that will continue for 3 days.
