Jharsuguda : The district-level Farm Machinery Fair has commenced today in Jharsuguda. The event, organised by the District Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment Department, is being held at the playground of Manmohan School. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari attended as the Chief Guest, while Jharsuguda District Collector Kunal Motiram Chavan was present as the Guest of Honour.
In his address, Chief Guest Suresh Pujari said that with improved irrigation facilities and the adoption of integrated farming—including livestock rearing, fisheries, and agriculture—the income of farmers in the district can be multiplied significantly. He advised the Agriculture, Fisheries, Livestock, Irrigation, and Horticulture Departments to prepare a joint action plan within a month to achieve this goal. He emphasised the need to move beyond traditional farming methods and strengthen irrigation facilities while promoting integrated farming. The minister also directed officials to ensure that all government benefits reach farmers efficiently.
District Collector Kunal Chavan, in his speech, highlighted how the district administration is coordinating various schemes of the Central and State governments to address challenges in the agriculture sector. He discussed how timely solutions can be provided to farmers’ problems and how farmers can be further empowered and made more profitable.
On this occasion, five successful farmers from the district were felicitated. Additionally, one farmer received a tractor, another a paddy thresher, and another a power tiller at subsidized rates, handed over by the dignitaries.
Under the Odisha Millet Mission, one Self-Help Group (SHG) received ₹30,000 for setting up a bio-centre, while another SHG received ₹50,000 for establishing a millet tiffin centre. A nutri-cereal food festival was also organised during the event.
Chief District Agriculture Officer Pradeep Kumar Nanda, in his welcome address, explained the purpose and objectives of the fair. He encouraged farmers to purchase agricultural machinery at subsidised prices during the fair, which will continue until the 11th of this month. Organised under his direct supervision, the five-day fair aims to promote modern agricultural tools and techniques and help farmers double their income.
Representatives of the Bargarh MP, Jharsuguda MLA, and Sambalpur Agricultural Engineering Division’s Narendra Kumar Panda were present. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Sameer Ranjan Das, Senior Scientist of the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK). In the evening, a cultural programme was held in which farmers from all blocks participated.
