Odisha CM seeks farm training institute in state

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik urged the Centre to set up a Central Farm Machinery Training and Testing Institute (CFMT & TI) to help the state improve efficiency in agriculture operations.

"The state has 10 agro-climatic zones and hence there is a need to ensure quick testing of implements/machinery developed which are suitable for different agro-climatic conditions," Patnaik said in a letter to Union Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh.

Stating that there is also a need for providing training facilities on operation, repair and maintenance, he said the CFMT & TI located at Biswanathcharialli (Assam) meant for the Eastern states is unable to meet the need of Odisha to the desired extent.

"I am given to understand that Government of India is planning to set up more such institutions in the country. It is requested that one CFMT & TI may be set up in Odisha to meet the testing and training need of the state as well as of the neighbouring states," the Chief Minister said.

The state would provide all kinds of assistance required for the project including land and water, he said adding the state has been laying emphasis on farm mechanisation with an objective of improving efficiency in agriculture operations for cost reduction, increased productivity and an increase in farmers' income.

For enhancing widespread use of farm machinery, the state government has enhanced subsidy in its State Agriculture Policy, 2013, Patnaik said.