Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Urges CM Majhi to Establish Four Agriculture Colleges in Sambalpur

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has written to Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, urging the establishment of four agriculture-related colleges in Sambalpur to unlock the region’s full potential in agriculture and allied sectors.

In his letter, Pradhan highlighted Sambalpur’s rich agricultural diversity and capacity for growth, yet noted that the region has not seen proportionate development. To address this, he proposed the setting up of the following four institutions:

1. College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry
2. College of Dairy Technology
3. College of Fisheries
4. College of Agri-Business Management

He emphasized that the College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry should be prioritized, given the rising demand for skilled veterinary professionals. “This will not only improve animal healthcare and livestock production but also help in combating zoonotic diseases, thus safeguarding public health,” Pradhan said.

The College of Dairy Technology, he added, would create a workforce for the dairy industry, foster research, and enhance productivity and quality across the sector—driving dairy-based economic growth in western Odisha.

In the fisheries sector, Pradhan proposed a dedicated College of Fisheries to boost expertise in aquaculture, sustainable management practices, and post-harvest technologies—opening up new livelihood opportunities for youth.

Given the changing dynamics of modern agriculture, Pradhan strongly advocated for a College of Agri-Business Management to groom professionals in supply chain management, agri-marketing, food processing, and rural entrepreneurship. “This would empower local youth to innovate and lead in the agricultural value chain,” he stated.

He pointed out that the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) already has land, infrastructure, and research facilities in Chiplima, Sambalpur, making it an ideal location for the proposed institutions. Additionally, unused land owned by the state’s Fisheries and Livestock Development Department could be utilized to fast-track the project.

Pradhan underlined that the proposed colleges would contribute to capacity-building, promote research and innovation, and provide much-needed extension services to farmers. He said the initiative would strengthen market connectivity, ensure better price realization for produce, and significantly improve farmers’ incomes—leading to sustainable rural development and prosperity in western Odisha.