Odisha launches state-level drive to spark maize revolution under Mukhyamantri Maka Mission

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, SEPTEMBER 26, 2025
Odisha is sowing the seeds for a maize revolution. The state held its first consultative workshop under the Mukhyamantri Maka Mission (MMM) on Friday at the Krushi Bhawan Auditorium, Bhubaneswar, marking a decisive step toward transforming Odisha into a leading maize production hub.
The workshop was inaugurated by Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment Department, who underscored the growing significance of maize, now emerging as the second-most important cereal crop after paddy in the state. He described MMM as a “whole-of-government” initiative, bringing together Agriculture, Cooperation, Mission Shakti, and ORMAS to strengthen maize cultivation and value chains across 15 districts and 45 blocks.
A landmark development under the mission is the establishment of Vijayanagar Bio-Tech’s maize-based starch plant in Nabarangpur, seen as a game-changer for southern Odisha. Regular buyer-seller meets are further boosting marketing opportunities and engagement for maize farmers.
Dr. Pravat Kumar Roul, Vice-Chancellor of OUAT, highlighted the state’s ethanol blending policy and the expansion of sweet corn and baby corn cultivation as promising avenues for farmers. Technical support from institutions such as CIMMYT, IIMR, and OUAT is helping farmers diversify crops and enhance value addition.
Chakravarti Singh Rathore, CEO of ORMAS, outlined the twin pillars of the mission: improving productivity and building efficient market linkages. In line with this, 10 MoUs were signed between Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) and major maize buyers, including poultry and ethanol firms, expanding market access for farmers.
Dr. Monica Priyadarshini, Director of Mission Shakti, reiterated the mission’s vision of a resilient maize ecosystem that empowers farmers while ensuring sustainable income.
Coordinated by ACCESS Development Services, the workshop brought together FPC representatives, scientists, and state officials to discuss hybrid seed production, agro-service centres, specialty corn promotion, and other technological advancements.
Closing the event, Bishnu Prasad Pattanaik, JDA (P&O)-cum-Nodal Officer of MMM, extended a vote of thanks, emphasizing the collaborative, forward-looking efforts aimed at ushering in a new era for maize cultivation in Odisha.