Bhubaneswar: Principal Secretary of the Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment (AG&FE) Department and Chairman of Odisha State Seeds Corporation (OSSC) and Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee stressed the importance of bio-fortified seeds with high market potential during the 46th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Corporation held today.
While paddy seeds remain widely cultivated in the State, Dr Padhee emphasized the Corporation’s strengthened focus on diversifying into bio-fortified seeds to boost farmers’ income.
In his address, Dr Padhee underscored the need for transparency, accountability, and zero tolerance for misconduct among officials, ensuring efficient service delivery to the farming community. He also encouraged shareholders engaged in seed production to explore opportunities in seed entrepreneurship, calling it a vital avenue for empowering farmers.
The AGM saw active participation from shareholders across the State, with Dr Padhee further outlining government initiatives aimed at supporting farmers. He assured shareholders that the Corporation will strive to meet their demands using available resources and relevant government schemes. The emphasis on non-paddy seed production and horticultural crops was highlighted as a key strategy to double farmers’ income.
Managing Director Bhabesh Kumar Nayak elaborated on the Corporation’s activities and shared his vision for making OSSC a dynamic organization, with the ORISEED brand gaining popularity among farmers in the coming years. He outlined the Corporation’s plans to enhance seed quality and increase the Seed Replacement Rate (SRR) in Odisha.
The AGM was attended by Grower Shareholder Director Ashok Kumar Baral, who emphasized the importance of maintaining the ORISEED brand’s quality to ensure its success. Senior officials of the AG&FE) Department including the Director of OSSOPCA and the Dean of Research at OUAT, were also present.
