SAMBALPUR (Odisha): Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated a state-of-the-art floriculture polyhouse and laid the foundation stone for a new agriculture marketing yard during his visit to Jujumura block in Sambalpur district on Tuesday, marking a significant push for rural entrepreneurship and sustainable farming in the region.
The polyhouse, developed in collaboration with CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), Lucknow, will promote climate-smart farming practices, especially in floriculture. It is part of a broader effort to strengthen sustainable agriculture and improve the resilience of smallholder farmers in Odisha.
The initiatives were launched at Sabujasanatanpali Farmer Producer Company Ltd (SSFPCL), a vibrant farmer collective with over 1,450 members—55% of whom are women. Supported by NABARD and Palladium Consulting India, the FPO is recognized for its inclusive rural entrepreneurship and innovation.
The minister also flagged off the season’s first watermelon consignment marketed by the FPO, underlining the growing market access and commercialization efforts for farmer-led enterprises. The initiative is part of a larger program supported by the Government of Odisha in partnership with Palladium and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to enhance FPOs’ market linkages and promote climate-resilient agriculture.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Pradhan reaffirmed his commitment to empowering farmers and promoting an agriculture-based economy in Sambalpur. “These collaborative efforts reflect our vision for Atmanirbhar Bharat through innovation, community participation, and institutional support,” he said.
The event was attended by Sambalpur District Collector Shri Siddheshwar Bondar, CSIR-NBRI Director Dr Ajit Kumar Shasany, NABARD officials, and representatives from Palladium and the local administration.
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