Odisha Millet Mission

The Odisha Millet Mission (OMM) has emerged as a significant initiative by the Odisha government to revive millet cultivation and support farmers in the state. Under this flagship program, the government has successfully procured a substantial quantity of ragi or finger millet, benefiting thousands of farmers.

Procurement Success: Over 600,000 Quintals of Ragi

The Odisha government has achieved an impressive milestone by procuring over 600,000 quintals of ragi under the Odisha Millet Mission. This procurement not only provides farmers with a secure market for their produce but also encourages the cultivation of ragi, contributing to the revival of this nutritious grain.

Minimum Support Price (MSP) and Districts with High Procurement

The ragi crop has been acquired from farmers at a minimum support price (MSP) of Rs 3,578 per quintal. Southern districts of Odisha, namely Koraput, Rayagada, Malkangiri, Kalahandi, Gajapati, and Sundargarh, have reported the highest amount of ragi procurement under the OMM. This indicates the success of the program in these regions and the farmers’ active participation.

System of Millet Intensification (SMI) and Improved Yield

Farmers have adopted the System of Millet Intensification (SMI) method to enhance their ragi yield. Traditionally, ragi was grown in barren and less fertile land, resulting in a yield of only 2.5 quintals per acre. However, with the SMI method, farmers can now harvest about 5-6 quintals per acre. This method focuses on endogenous processes and optimal spacing between plants, leading to increased microorganism population, aeration, and tiller production.

Collective Promotion of Improved Agronomic Practices

Local non-profits, community resource persons, community-based organizations, progressive farmers, Krishak Sathis, and subject matter specialists of Krishi Vigyan Kendra have played a crucial role in promoting improved agronomic practices among small-scale farmers. Their collective efforts have contributed to enhanced productivity and crop yield among farmers associated with the OMM.

Streamlining Procurement Through MPAS

To streamline the procurement process, the Odisha government has introduced an online system called MPAS (Millet Procurement and Sales). This platform enables efficient management and operation of the procurement process. It also ensures direct benefit transfer within a week of the sale of produce, providing farmers with timely payments directly into their bank accounts.

Month: Current Affairs - May, 2023

Category: India Nation & States Current Affairs