Odisha to Establish Agri-CEVA Centre to Promote Healthy Rice and Millets, Boost Farmers’ Income and Empower Women SHGs

Odisha is taking steps to emerge as a national leader in healthy food production, rice and millet innovation, and agricultural value addition. Deputy Chief Ministers Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo and Pravati Parida on Saturday (November 7) reviewed the upcoming specialty rice and millet processing facilities at Baramunda in Bhubaneswar.

During their visit to the facility and Odisha Bazar, they interacted with scientists from the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), senior government officials, representatives of Mission Shakti, OUAT and Odisha Agro Industries Corporation (OAIC). Discussions focused on increasing farmers’ incomes, promoting nutritional security and creating business opportunities through technology-driven agricultural processing.

Agri-CEVA to Promote Rice and Millet Innovation

Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo announced that the upcoming processing facility would be named the ‘Odisha Agricultural Centre of Excellence for Value Addition’ (Agri-CEVA).

The centre will develop nutritious, value-added products using IRRI-developed rice varieties, Odisha’s traditional heritage rice and millets. It will also explore the commercial potential of broken rice and rice bran by converting them into nutritious products, generating additional income for farmers.

The initiative aims to position Odisha as a leader in healthier food systems and preventive nutrition.

IRRI and APICOL to Strengthen Market Linkages

The International Rice Research Institute will provide technical support in production, processing, logistics, traceability and quality certification. Meanwhile, the Agricultural Promotion and Investment Corporation of Odisha Limited (APICOL) will develop business plans and market linkages to strengthen domestic sales and export opportunities.

The project is also expected to reduce post-harvest losses, improve product shelf life and promote branded agricultural products.

Mission Shakti Women to Benefit

The facility will support Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), women self-help groups, Mission Shakti groups, startups and rural entrepreneurs through shared processing infrastructure, quality assurance, food safety training and capacity building.

“Our vision is clear. We want every farmer to earn more, every woman entrepreneur to grow confidently and Odisha to emerge as a global destination for healthier rice, heritage rice and millet innovation,” said Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo.

Agriculture Commissioner-cum-Secretary Sachin Ramachandra Jadhav said the initiative would connect innovation, entrepreneurship and market access to improve the livelihoods of farmers and women across Odisha.