Agriculture is the backbone of the Odia community, with over 70 percent of the population depending on farming for their livelihood, said Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Sunday. He stressed that the development of farmers and agriculture is essential for the overall growth of both the state and the nation.
Addressing the state-level Chasa Samabesh at Bamur Jujyoti High School in Kishorenagar block, Pradhan urged people to make agriculture a strong and sustainable source of employment. He also informed that the Odisha government has written to the Centre seeking inclusion of 117 SEBC communities in the Central OBC list.
The convention, chaired by Chasa Samabesh Committee president Upendra Pradhan, witnessed participation from senior political leaders and public representatives. Speakers called for unity among farmers beyond political lines to protect their dignity and strengthen the farming community. Demands were raised for irrigation projects, agriculture-based industries, and the upgradation of Angul Autonomous College into a university.
During the visit, the Union Minister laid foundation stones for development projects worth over ₹150 crore in Kishorenagar and Angul municipal areas. He also attended the Odisha state conference of the All India Educational Federation in Angul.
