Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati has called on the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) to spearhead agricultural entrepreneurship in the state by developing detailed project profiles that outline the financial and operational feasibility of agri-based ventures. Speaking at OUAT’s 64th Foundation Day, the Governor stressed that such profiles—covering cost estimates, land and power needs, income projections, and subsidy schemes—could empower students and farmers to make informed decisions, thereby fostering a new wave of agri-entrepreneurs.
The push for structured project profiles aligns with OUAT’s broader role in bridging the gap between academic research and on-ground implementation. The Governor acknowledged the contributions of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), the university’s extension centers, in training farmers, some of whom have already transitioned into industrial activities. However, he emphasized that wider dissemination of these profiles, coupled with targeted guidance, could significantly scale up participation in agri-enterprises, particularly among rural youth.
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of India’s economy, and institutions like OUAT are increasingly seen as pivotal in addressing contemporary challenges—climate change, market fluctuations, and the need for sustainable practices. Dr. Kambhampati highlighted key growth areas, including food processing, value addition, and exports, while advocating for the adoption of advanced technologies like precision farming, AI, and biotechnology. His remarks reflect a growing consensus that modernizing agriculture requires not just policy support but also institutional leadership in innovation and skill development.
OUAT’s recognition as a nodal center for agricultural startups by the MSME Department underscores its evolving role in nurturing entrepreneurship. The university has already mentored 24 startups, a step the Governor noted as crucial to realizing the vision of *Atmanirbhar Bharat* (Self-Reliant India). By positioning itself as a hub for agri-innovation, OUAT could help Odisha carve a stronger presence in global agricultural markets while creating local employment opportunities.
The event also saw contributions from other dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, who emphasized organic farming as a sustainable pathway, and Fisheries & MSME Minister Gokulananda Mallick, who outlined government initiatives to strengthen the agricultural ecosystem. The foundation day celebrations included the felicitations of students, farmers, and staff, alongside the inauguration of a new Wi-Fi facility—a nod to the university’s efforts to integrate digital tools into agricultural education.
The Governor’s call to action comes at a time when Indian agriculture is at a crossroads. While the sector has made strides in productivity, smallholder farmers often struggle with market access, credit constraints, and climate risks. By equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with data-driven project profiles, OUAT could demystify the process of setting up agri-businesses, making it more accessible to first-generation entrepreneurs. If executed effectively, this initiative could serve as a model for other agricultural universities, reinforcing the link between education, innovation, and economic empowerment in rural India.