Bhubaneswar, Nov 10 (UDN): Odisha is set to celebrate the fifth edition of Mandia Divas on November 10 and 11 with a two-day state-level conference in Bhubaneswar, highlighting the importance of traditional seed conservation, agricultural biodiversity and climate-resilient farming practices.
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The event, organised by the Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment Department, will be held at Mayfair Convention under the theme “Community-based Seed Systems and Agricultural Biodiversity for Resilient Food Systems”.
Governor Braj Mohan Ram will inaugurate the conference in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Dr Soumya Swaminathan, ICAR Director General Dr Mangi Lal Jat and other distinguished guests.
The two-day programme will bring together agricultural scientists, policymakers, farmers, traditional seed conservators and other stakeholders to deliberate on ways to strengthen indigenous farming systems and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Key discussions will focus on conserving traditional crop varieties, protecting agricultural biodiversity, strengthening community-based seed systems and improving the resilience of farming communities against climate-related challenges.
The conference will also explore opportunities to expand the cultivation and marketing of millets, particularly through greater participation of tribal and rural farming communities.
A special exhibition will be organised alongside the conference, showcasing traditional seeds, millet-based food products, indigenous cuisines and innovative agricultural practices. The exhibition is expected to provide a platform for farmers and other stakeholders to exchange knowledge and explore new opportunities in the millet sector.
Mandia Divas was instituted in 2022 under the Odisha government’s flagship Sri Anna Abhiyan to recognise the contribution of tribal and rural communities in conserving traditional crops and promoting millet cultivation.
Over the years, the observance has emerged as an important platform for highlighting the nutritional value of millets, preserving indigenous agricultural knowledge and encouraging sustainable livelihoods.
Through the fifth edition, Odisha aims to further strengthen community-led seed conservation, promote agricultural diversity and build more resilient food systems while recognising the role of farmers in safeguarding the state’s traditional agricultural heritage.