Odisha’s successful agricultural transformation-Harvest the Odisha story to ensure food security

Source: The post Odisha’s successful agricultural transformation has been created on the article “Harvest the Odisha story to ensure food security” published in “The Hindu” on 12th December 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper 3- Indian Economy- food security

News: The article discusses Odisha’s successful agricultural transformation model, which can be useful in resolving the global issue of agriculture crises led by climate change.

Why is there a need for agricultural transformation?

Rising Number of Disasters: The climate crisis is escalating the frequency of natural disasters, projected to increase to 560 per year, or about 1.5 disasters per day.

Growing Hunger and Malnutrition: Unchecked climate change is expected to exacerbate hunger and malnutrition by 20%.

Declining Food Productivity: Global warming could lead to a 21% decline in food productivity.

What are the achievements of Odisha’s agriculture model?

Significant National Contribution: Odisha, once faced with food scarcity, is now a major paddy producer, contributing 9% of India’s rice and 4.22% of its total food grain production. For example, Kalahandi district, previously known as the “land of hunger,” has been transformed into Odisha’s rice bowl.

Top National Ranking: In 2022, Odisha was ranked as the top state in India for implementing the National Food Security Act, reflecting its effective food security strategies.

Global Recognition as a Model: Odisha’s transformation is globally acknowledged as a successful example of sustainable agricultural development amidst climate challenges.

What steps did Odisha take for agricultural transformation?

Comprehensive Climate Change Action Plan: Odisha developed a wide-ranging plan addressing sectors like agriculture, energy, and water resources, to mitigate and adapt to climate change impacts. A key focus was on these farmers, who form a large part of Odisha’s agricultural community.

Implementing the KALIA Scheme: The Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation (KALIA) program was introduced to provide financial, livelihood, and agricultural support to farmers.

Crop Diversification and Sustainable Practices: Initiatives like the Odisha Millet Mission promoted diversified cropping to build resilience against climate change, alongside training in integrated nutrient and pest management.

Bottom-Up Approach for Climate Resilience: The state adopted a grassroots strategy, with the Crop Weather Watch Group conducting weekly meetings and field visits, enabling timely responses to adverse weather conditions.

Partnership with the UN World Food Programme: This collaboration brought innovative solutions to improve food and nutrition security in the state, like biometric technology in public distribution systems and rice fortification projects.

Way forward

Odisha’s successful agricultural transformation offers a valuable blueprint for the world in combating the effects of climate change on agriculture. By focusing on technological innovation, crop diversification, and strengthening farmer education, other regions can replicate this model. Expanding climate resilience strategies is essential for ensuring sustainable food security globally in the face of increasing environmental challenges.

Question for practice

Evaluate the key strategies and outcomes of Odisha’s agricultural transformation in the context of combating the effects of climate change on agriculture.