Sambalpur Plans Five-Year Push to Become Odisha’s Spice Hub

The Sambalpur district administration has prepared a five-year strategy to establish the region as a leading centre for spice cultivation, processing and trade in Odisha. The initiative aims to increase farmers’ earnings, promote crop diversification and strengthen the market presence of locally produced spices.

The proposed Sambalpur Spice Development Plan was discussed at a high-level meeting chaired by Collector Siddheshwar Baliram Bondar on Tuesday evening.

Under the first phase, the administration will work with the Spices Board under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry to expand chilli cultivation. Four panchayats in the Kuchinda subdivision have been selected for the initial rollout.

Officials will also identify suitable locations for growing turmeric, ginger, coriander and other spices by assessing soil quality, climatic conditions and irrigation facilities.

Collector Bondar said Kuchinda chilli has already established a distinct identity for Sambalpur. The administration now intends to explore the cultivation of other spices, including black pepper, to make better use of the district’s favourable agro-climatic conditions. Diversification is expected to improve farm incomes and reduce farmers’ reliance on a limited number of crops.

The roadmap also proposes setting up spice clusters in every block, bringing farmers, farmer producer organisations and self-help groups together. The Spices Board and the Horticulture Department will provide training in modern farming techniques, quality seeds and integrated pest management.

To reduce post-harvest losses and improve product quality, the administration plans to strengthen facilities for drying, grading, storage and primary processing. Farmers will also be connected directly with traders, processing units and exporters to secure better market access.

Another major component is the launch of a dedicated brand, ‘Sambalpur Spices’, which is expected to give the district’s spice products a stronger market identity and open up wider commercial opportunities.