Odisha has launched an extensive kharif 2026 preparedness plan as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts indicate a below-normal monsoon and a possible El Nino effect. Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo on Wednesday instructed all concerned departments and district administrations to work in coordination to safeguard farmers and reduce risks from weak rainfall.
High-Level Review Meeting
During a high-level virtual review meeting, the Deputy Chief Minister directed districts to take early steps to handle delayed or deficient southwest monsoon conditions. The Odisha State Seeds Corporation (OSSC) has been tasked with completing the distribution of certified seeds by the first week of June, giving priority to remote and vulnerable districts.
Seed Distribution and Crop Diversification
In rain-deficit-prone regions, officials have been told to ensure sufficient stocks of short- and medium-duration paddy, along with pulses, oil seeds, and millets. OSSC will also maintain reserve stocks of paddy, pulses, and oilseeds to address weather-related emergencies. District teams have been asked to push crop diversification in upland and rain-fed areas. If monsoon onset is delayed, the state will implement a community nursery approach to support timely transplantation.
Fertilizer Supply and Monitoring
For fertilizers, MARKFED, PACS, and LAMPCS have been directed to ensure smooth last-mile delivery. Fertilizer companies have been asked to keep supplies uninterrupted despite global market uncertainty, while district collectors will monitor distribution closely. The government will enforce strict action against black-marketing, hoarding, and illegal diversion.
Nutrient Management and Water Conservation
Field staff will promote balanced and integrated nutrient management using soil health cards, along with green manuring and water conservation measures.
Crop Insurance and Farmer Registration
The state will also intensify enrolment under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). The agriculture department stated that Odisha will bear the entire farmer-share premium for coverage up to 2 hectares per farmer. District administrations have been instructed to speed up farmer registry targets, as registration is required to access PM-KISAN, CM-KISAN, subsidized seed and fertilizer purchases, and government procurement.
Advisories and Technical Guidance
Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), will provide real-time, location-specific, weather-based agro-advisories and technical guidance on pest control and stress-tolerant crop varieties. These advisories will be displayed on LED screens at district and state levels to expand reach.
Contingency Teams and Awareness Programmes
District contingency teams will remain active throughout the kharif season, and field officers will conduct regular village visits and awareness programmes focused on dry-spell preparedness.
