Research–Extension Interface Meeting at KVK Rayagada Strengthens Kharif Preparedness against El Niño Threat

21 July 2026, Rayagada

In a proactive initiative to safeguard agriculture from the anticipated impacts of the El Niño-induced rainfall deficit during Kharif 2026, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (OUAT), Rayagada, under the jurisdiction of - Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata, organized a Research–Extension Interface Meeting today. The meeting brought together scientists, district officials, and stakeholders to formulate a coordinated strategy for addressing the challenges posed by the forecast of an erratic South-West monsoon. Rayagada is among the eight districts of Odisha identified by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) as highly vulnerable to the expected rainfall deficit.

Delivering the keynote presentation, the Senior Scientist & Head, KVK Rayagada, presented the block-wise rainfall status (up to 20 July 2026), seasonal weather outlook, contingency crop plans, and KVK interventions to mitigate the impacts of El Niño. He also announced the formation of two multidisciplinary Monitoring Teams comprising KVK scientists and Agriculture and allied department officials to conduct twice-weekly field visits to monitor crop conditions, input availability, irrigation, pest incidence, and other emerging issues. Weekly reports will be submitted to the District Collector and the State Government to facilitate timely policy interventions.

He also outlined a comprehensive action plan that includes twice-weekly weather-based agro-advisories, mobile-based advisories through the Kisan Sarathi platform, demonstrations on green manuring and natural farming, awareness campaigns on the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), and extensive dissemination of advisories through social media to ensure that farmers receive timely and location-specific information.

Sharing his views on the initiative, Dr Pradip Dey, Director, ICAR-ATARI, Kolkata, remarked, "The increasing frequency of climate-induced weather uncertainties demands a stronger research–extension interface and coordinated action at the district level. This initiative at KVK Rayagada reflects our commitment to translating scientific knowledge into timely field interventions that help farmers cope with the anticipated El Niño-induced rainfall deficit.

Through convergence of research institutions, line departments, and extension agencies, coupled with real-time monitoring, weather-based advisories, and contingency planning, we aim to build resilience in the farming community and minimize risks to agricultural production. Such collaborative preparedness is essential for ensuring sustainable livelihoods and climate-resilient agriculture."

Block Agriculture Officers from all blocks presented updates on the prevailing crop situation, fertilizer and seed availability, and contingency measures being implemented at the field level. Officials from the Animal Resources Development Department detailed their preparedness plans for ensuring fodder security through silage production and protecting livestock health through vaccination programmes, including Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccination.

The meeting witnessed active participation from KVK scientists and senior officials of the Departments of Agriculture, Horticulture, Irrigation, Soil Conservation, Animal Resources Development, along with representatives of partner NGOs. Discussions focused on district preparedness, inter-departmental coordination, and implementation of contingency measures to minimize crop losses and ensure livelihood security for farmers.

The meeting concluded with a strong commitment from all participating departments to work in close convergence with KVK Rayagada to ensure timely interventions, strengthen climate resilience, and protect agricultural production and farmers' livelihoods during the Kharif 2026 season.

(Source: ICAR- Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata)