Bhubaneswar, June 19: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday urged Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to establish four agriculture-related colleges in his Sambalpur constituency area.

In his letter to the Chief Minister, Union Minister Pradhan proposed to set up four colleges, i.e. College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, College of Dairy Technology, College of Fisheries, and College of Agri-Business Management at Chipilima in Odisha’s Sambalpur district.

Pradhan highlighted Sambalpur's immense potential in agriculture and allied sectors, which, despite its diversity, remains underutilized. He emphasized the need for long-term, inclusive, and knowledge-driven development strategies centered around these sectors.

The Union Minister mentioned that the first priority is the College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences to meet the increasing demand for trained professionals in animal health and husbandry. This institute would also contribute to better livestock productivity and public health safety, especially against zoonotic diseases.

Secondly, Pradhan urged the establishment of a College of Dairy Technology to bolster dairy farming by producing skilled manpower, encouraging research, and improving the quality and processing of dairy products. This would support the region’s dairy-based economy.

Thirdly, Pradhan proposed a Fisheries College, noting aquaculture’s rapid growth and its potential to generate employment and livelihood opportunities. Training in aquaculture management and post-harvest technologies would be emphasized.

Lastly, he advocated for a College of Agri-Business Management to support a market-linked agricultural economy. It would train students in supply chain management, marketing, and food processing, preparing youth for leadership roles and innovation in agri-business.

The proposed location, Chipilima, already has available land, academic infrastructure, and proximity to Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT). Additionally, unused land held by the state's Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department could be leveraged for these projects.

Pradhan also emphasized that these institutions would not only generate skilled and entrepreneurial youth but also provide region-specific research and extension services for farmers. They aim to strengthen market linkages, increase farmers’ incomes, and promote rural prosperity.

The union Minister requested the Chief Minister’s personal intervention for prompt approval, expressing confidence that this initiative would pave the way for holistic economic development in the region and the state.

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