Odisha Launches ₹141.5 Crore Drought Mitigation Programme Under NDMF

Bhubaneswar: The Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment (DAFE) has launched the Odisha Agriculture Drought Mitigation Programme (OADMP) under the National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF), marking a major step toward climate-resilient farming in the state.

With a total outlay of ₹141.50 crore, the programme aims to strengthen climate resilience, improve agricultural productivity, and promote crop diversification in drought-prone areas. It will be implemented in Komna block of Nuapada district, Kosagumuda block of Nabarangpur district, and Raruan block of Mayurbhanj district. The initiative is expected to benefit around 24,000 households, with a focus on small and marginal farmers, tribal communities, women, and rural youth.

The MoU for the programme was signed during Krushi Odisha – 2026.

OADMP is being implemented with technical support from leading agricultural and research institutions, including ICRISAT, ICAR-CRIDA, and IRRI, ensuring a science-driven approach to drought mitigation and sustainable farming practices.

Deputy Chief Minister K.V. Singh Deo stressed the importance of proactive drought management, highlighting the need to build resilience to safeguard livelihoods and strengthen the rural economy.

Additional Chief Secretary Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee described OADMP as the first-ever drought mitigation programme funded under the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) framework, emphasising its focus on science-led planning, convergence of schemes, and community ownership.

Among those present at the event were Dr. Pravat Kumar Roul, Vice Chancellor of OUAT; Shubhranshu Mishra, Additional Secretary; representatives from NDMA, OSDMA, and IMD; scientists from Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs); and senior government officials. Sangram Keshari Pattanayak, Joint Director of DA&FE, delivered the vote of thanks.