Bhubaneswar: A delegation from the Fertilizer Innovation Centre India (FIC India) met Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment and Energy, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, at his office chamber in Lok Seva Bhawan today to discuss setting up an FIC unit in Odisha.
During the discussion, Deputy Chief Minister Singh Deo emphasised the state government’s commitment to reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and actively promoting organic farming in Odisha. He highlighted that accelerating agricultural production while ensuring sustainable, long-term solutions to farmers’ challenges remains a top priority.
The FIC India delegates stressed the importance of promoting research, innovation and sustainable agricultural growth to empower farmers. They said FIC focuses on optimising fertilizer application, improving soil health and enabling efficient nutrient management. The representatives informed that establishing an FIC unit in Odisha would make it only the second such centre in the world.
Discussions were also held regarding establishment of a dedicated Fertilizer Academy in Odisha, which would pave the way for cutting-edge innovation and research in the state’s agriculture sector.
Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment Sachin Ramchandra Jadhav, Director of Agriculture Subham Saxena and other senior officials of the department were present at the meeting.
