OUAT Urged to Empower Farmers and Students Through Agri-Startups
Governor highlights role of project profiles, KVKs, and advanced technologies
Bhubaneswar : Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati on Sunday called upon the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) to spearhead agricultural entrepreneurship by equipping students, farmers, and rural communities with skills and resources to build viable enterprises. He was addressing the 64th Foundation Day of the university as the chief guest.
Emphasising practical support for aspiring entrepreneurs, the Governor urged OUAT to prepare detailed project profiles outlining cost estimates, land and power requirements, income projections, and available subsidy schemes.
“Such profiles will help farmers and students assess the financial viability of agricultural ventures and encourage entrepreneurship,” he said. Dr. Kambhampati noted that access to structured information would help bridge the gap between training and enterprise creation.
The Governor appreciated the contribution of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) across Odisha, which have been training farmers in modern agricultural practices. He highlighted that several trainees have already started industrial activities, reflecting the growing potential of agri-based entrepreneurship. Wider dissemination of project profiles and proper mentorship, he said, could encourage many more farmers and students to venture into agribusiness.
Congratulating the university on its foundation day, Dr. Kambhampati described agriculture as the backbone of the Indian economy as well as a part of the nation’s cultural identity. He stressed the importance of universities like OUAT in creating skilled manpower and addressing pressing challenges such as
The Governor outlined priority areas for future growth, including processing, value addition, marketing, exports, and the integration of advanced technologies such as precision farming, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and sustainable resource management.
Dr. Kambhampati lauded OUAT for being recognized as a leading nodal center for agricultural startups by the MSME Department. The university has mentored 24 ventures, a contribution the Governor said aligns with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).
“This recognition positions OUAT to empower youth, promote rural enterprises, and enhance Odisha’s agricultural footprint at the global level,” he remarked.
Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, who holds the Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment portfolio, also addressed the ceremony. He underscored the importance of organic farming and reflected on India’s transformation from a food-importing to a food-exporting nation.
Fisheries & Animal Resources Development and MSME Minister Gokulananda Mallick spoke about the government’s continued initiatives to support farmers and strengthen the agricultural ecosystem, noting the role of technology and policy in driving growth.
The event was attended by Ekamra-Bhubaneswar MLA Babu Singh and OUAT Vice-Chancellor Prof. Pravat Kumar Roul, who both highlighted the university’s contributions to Odisha’s farming community.
The ceremony began with a welcome address by Dean of Extension Education Dr. Prasannajit Mishra and concluded with a vote of thanks by Registrar Pratibha Dora. On the occasion, achieving students, progressive farmers, and staff members were felicitatedfor their contributions. A commemorative booklet was released, and a new Wi-Fi facility was inaugurated on campus, marking the university’s continued focus on digital integration.
In his concluding remarks, Governor Kambhampati reiterated that OUAT must continue to innovate and expand its role beyond academics into entrepreneurship, technology adoption, and rural empowerment. He called on the institution to blend traditional wisdom with modern science to ensure that Odisha remains at the forefront of agricultural innovation.
