IAS-SOA Empowers Farmers with Practical Training in Odisha

Bhubaneswar, India Jul 29, 2026 ALN: Bhubaneswar: The Institute of Agricultural Sciences (IAS) at SOA Deemed to be University on Wednesday wrapped up the first phase of its Farmers’ Training Programme as part of the Rural Agricultural Work Experience (RAWE) 2026–27 initiative. This initiative is critical in addressing the pressing challenges faced by farmers in Odisha, a state where agriculture is a primary source of livelihood for a significant portion of the population.

The week-long effort, running from July 22 to 29, focused on empowering farmers through practical training while providing hands-on learning opportunities for agriculture students. The RAWE programme is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, allowing students to engage directly with farming communities. The programme covered 11 villages under Bhubaneswar, Jatni, and Balianta blocks in Khordha district, including Jhintisasan, Panikata, Chhatabar, Purohitpur, Mendhasal, Budhipada, Barudakhana, Purana Padhan, Kujimahal, Bhola, and Singirisasan. These areas were selected due to their diverse agricultural practices and the specific challenges they face, making them ideal for targeted training.

The organisers conducted a total of 16 need-based training sessions tailored to local farming systems and challenges. This approach ensured that the training was not only relevant but also immediately applicable, addressing the unique circumstances of each village. By focusing on local needs, the programme aimed to enhance productivity and sustainability in agricultural practices.

These sessions emphasised low-cost, climate-resilient, and income-boosting agricultural technologies aimed at raising productivity, cutting cultivation expenses, and advancing sustainable practices. The emphasis on low-cost technologies is particularly important in a region where many farmers operate on tight budgets and face the dual pressures of climate change and market fluctuations. Training topics covered a broad spectrum of modern yet accessible techniques, such as Azolla cultivation for livestock feed and soil improvement, Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in paddy, mushroom cultivation and value addition for extra income, preparation of neem-based botanical pesticides, seed and banana sucker treatment, production of organic inputs, Neem Seed Kernel Extract (NSKE), neem cake application, and compost making with enhancers.

Additional sessions addressed beekeeping and honey extraction, Pro-Tray technology for vegetable seedlings, insect traps for pest control, vermi-rearing and vermicomposting, vermi-wash production, and IPM strategies for cucurbits and paddy. Each of these topics was chosen not only for their relevance to current agricultural practices but also for their potential to improve farmers' incomes and promote environmental sustainability. For instance, beekeeping not only provides an additional source of income but also enhances pollination, which is crucial for crop production.

All sessions featured live demonstrations, practical hands-on activities, interactive discussions, and on-site problem-solving to help farmers apply the knowledge immediately. The interactive nature of the training allowed farmers to ask questions and engage directly with the instructors, fostering a collaborative learning environment. This participatory approach is essential in agricultural training, as it encourages farmers to share their experiences and challenges, leading to more effective solutions.

The RAWE Committee faculty coordinated the programme in close collaboration with village communities, ensuring relevance and effectiveness. By involving local communities in the planning and execution of the training sessions, the programme was able to build trust and rapport with the farmers. Farmers, including many women and rural youth, along with RAWE students, participated enthusiastically, engaging directly with experts to address field-specific issues and receive customised scientific advice. The inclusion of women and youth is particularly noteworthy, as it promotes gender equity and empowers the next generation of farmers.

Prof Santosh Kumar Rout, Dean of IAS, described the RAWE programme as a vital link between agricultural education and rural development. "It gives students real-world exposure to actual farming conditions, local resources, farmers’ challenges, and rural livelihoods," he said, adding that the faculty is committed to delivering quality education while transferring scientific knowledge to improve farmers’ incomes and promote sustainable agriculture. This commitment to quality education is reflected in the curriculum and training methods employed by IAS, which are designed to equip students with the skills necessary to address contemporary agricultural challenges.

Dr Anshuman Jena, Chairman of the RAWE Programme, expressed satisfaction with the successful completion of Phase-I, crediting the strong support from village communities, farmers, and students. His acknowledgment of community support underscores the importance of collaboration in agricultural development initiatives. He reaffirmed IAS’s dedication to empowering farmers through location-specific technologies, climate-smart practices, and ongoing extension activities. This dedication is crucial as farmers face a rapidly changing agricultural landscape influenced by climate change, market dynamics, and technological advancements.

Dr Jena added that Phase-II of the RAWE programme will feature additional awareness campaigns, demonstrations, and specialized trainings on emerging technologies, integrated farming systems, natural resource management, entrepreneurship development, and other relevant themes. The focus on entrepreneurship development is particularly significant, as it encourages farmers to view agriculture not just as a means of subsistence but as a viable business opportunity. By equipping farmers with the skills and knowledge to innovate and diversify their income sources, the programme aims to create a more resilient agricultural sector in Odisha.

The implications of this training programme extend beyond immediate agricultural practices. By empowering farmers with knowledge and skills, IAS is contributing to the broader goals of rural development and poverty alleviation. The integration of sustainable practices into farming not only benefits the environment but also ensures food security and enhances the livelihoods of farming communities. As Odisha continues to face challenges such as climate change and economic pressures, initiatives like the RAWE programme play a crucial role in fostering resilience and sustainability in the agricultural sector.