Bhubaneswar, Dec 9: The Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment (DAFE), Government of Odisha, has signed two significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to advance agricultural development and digital transformation in the state, officials said on Tuesday.

The first MoU was signed with Heifer International to support value chain development for ginger, turmeric, and millets (Shree Anna). The initiative aims to enhance farmer incomes, modernise agricultural practices, and strengthen market linkages for producers across Odisha.

The second MoU was executed between DAFE, the Department of Fisheries & Animal Resources Development (FARD), and M/s Tatwa Technologies Ltd. for the operation and management of the Krushi Samrudhi Helpline, Odisha’s mobile-based digital extension service. The platform is designed to provide grassroots-level advisory support, offering real-time crop, livestock, and weather advisories to farmers.

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Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, who presided over the signing, said the agreements would “help us reach the unreached and provide government assistance during their need.” FARD and MSME Minister Shri Gokulananda Mallik highlighted the importance of real-time livestock advisories, noting their impact on farmers and rearers.

Principal Secretary, Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, explained that the Krushi Samrudhi Helpline is a toll-free advisory service that already connects over 80 lakh farmers. The platform currently provides advisories on 70 crop types, 11 livestock categories, and three fisheries practices. Since its inception, it has delivered more than 95 crore crop advisories, 40 crore livestock advisories, 5 crore fisheries advisories, and 26 crore weather and schematic advisories.

The ceremony was attended by senior officials including Principal Secretary, FARD, Suresh Kumar Vashishth, directors of agriculture, horticulture, soil conservation, fisheries, and animal husbandry, along with representatives from Heifer International and Tatwa Technologies.

The MoUs reflect Odisha’s commitment to strengthening agricultural infrastructure, empowering farmers through technology, and building a farmer-centric ecosystem that integrates traditional practices with modern innovation.