Odisha to Establish State-of-the-Art Farmer Skill and Agri-Incubation Centre (FSAIC)

BHUBANESWAR, Jan 2026 : In a significant move toward modernizing the state’s primary sector, the Government of Odisha has finalized the roadmap for the Farmer Skill and Agri-Incubation Centre (FSAIC). The project, discussed during a high-level meeting chaired by the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, aims to position Odisha as a leader in futuristic agriculture.

Empowering Farmers through Innovation
The FSAIC is designed to be a comprehensive hub for upskilling farmers and incubating agri-entrepreneurs. During the meeting, Shri Singh Deo emphasized that the project’s core mission is to bridge the gap between traditional farming and modern entrepreneurship.

The center will operate through four specialized modules: Agri-entrepreneurship Development: Cultivating new businesses in the agricultural sector. Farmer Skilling and Training: Practical education in modern, high-yield techniques. Technology Demonstration: Showcasing the latest advancements in “Ag-Tech.” Value-Added Services: Enhancing the marketability of raw produce.

The primary objective is Skill Development. By training our farmers in modern techniques and providing them with financial access and market connectivity, we are ensuring long-term profitability and economic stability for rural Odisha, said Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo.

Advanced Technology & Infrastructure
The project will feature high-tech agricultural components to promote sustainable and precision-based farming. Additional Chief Secretary Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, said that the FSAIC will integrate cutting-edge systems including:
Precision Agriculture- IoT-driven data for crop management. Agrophotovoltaics- Dual use of land for both solar energy and farming. Advanced Lab Facilities- Tissue culture labs and Re circulatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS). Sustainable Logistics- Renewable energy-powered cold storage and primary processing centers.

The government has conducted detailed technical and financial feasibility studies at two potential sites: HTI Nildunguri and Deras Agriculture Farm. The studies indicate that the project is highly feasible with Viability Gap Funding (VGF) support from the government for both capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operations and maintenance (O&M).

Ernst & Young (E&Y) is currently serving as the transaction advisor to ensure the project meets global standards of implementation.

The meeting was attended by Director of Horticulture, Shri Kalunge Gorakh Waman, representatives from E&Y, and senior officials from the Department of Agriculture.