Enhancing Agricultural Productivity and Rural Livelihoods through Scaling-up of Science-led Development in Odisha: Bhoochetana

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Location: Odisha, India

Partners:

1. Odisha University of Agriculture & Technology;
2. NGOs (CARR, Abhyudaya, HAVL, NJS, Sambandh, APOWA, Triranga Yubak Sangha, SEWAK, Mahashakti Foundation, Pragati, Parivartan, Loksevak, Harsha Trust, Foundation for Ecological Security, UDYAMA, NIRMAN, SGF, NIRDES, Jankalyan Pratishthan, Lokadrushti);
3. ICRISAT

Summary:
The project aims at improving crop productivity and rural livelihoods through science-based Natural Resource Management in the State of Odisha. Soil health mapping through the collection of about 40,000 representative soil samples by stratified sampling methods across 30 districts provides a sound base for precise nutrient management for macro and micro nutrients. It also envisages economic and environmental benefits by avoiding indiscriminate use of NPK fertilizers. GIS mapping of analysis results and use of ICT tools like tablet-based modules will facilitate informed decision-making by policy makers, farmers and other stakeholders. The two laboratories selected in the State will be upgraded to state-of-the-art referral laboratories of international standards to cater to the state future requirements of swift and precise quality analyses of a sizeable number of soil, water, fertilizer, and plant samples.

The project will facilitate science-led developments through capacity building of department of agriculture (DoA) officials, farmers, stakeholders and harnessing the synergies of consortium partners like Odisha University of Agriculture & Technology, Department of Agriculture and NGOs. The project will establish pilots as sites of learnings in the districts to scale out improved agricultural practices in collaboration with department of agriculture as the nodal agency.

The specific objectives are:

• To upgrade two existing soil analytical laboratories in the state to serve as referral laboratories and run them efficiently with government support;
• Identify the best soil, crop, water and nutrient management options for sustainable intensification of major crops in different agro-ecoregions to increase productivity through demonstrations in pilot sites and scaling-up in partnership with DoA and other partners through convergence;
• To assess the nutrient status of soils in the 30 districts of Odisha through stratified soil sampling method;
• To build the capacity of DoA staff in undertaking soil analysis, handling data and that of other consortium partners including farmers for scaling-up science-led holistic development strategy using ICT tools; and
• To concurrently monitor, evaluate, assess and document the impacts of scaling-up approach in order to enable mid-course corrections.

Recent Posts

Strengthening Soil Health Framework in India’s Odisha State

Soil Atlas and Two Modern State Referral Labs Launched Through ICRISAT-Led Bhoochetana Project in Odisha, India

Modern soil testing labs to give farming in Odisha a big boost

Soil Health Key Priority for Better Livelihoods of Odisha Farmers

Protecting agri from Covid: Odisha can show way

Soil Health Scheme for Farmers in Odisha – To Benefit 4.35 Million Farmers in 30 districts

Recent Publications