Bhubaneswar, 23 October (H.S.) : Odisha is showcasing its rich traditional rice heritage on a national and international platform, with 15 indigenous rice varieties and products from eight districts being displayed at the Bharat International Rice Conference (BIRC) 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, from October 23 to 25.

The initiative, facilitated by the Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS) under the Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department, aims to connect the state's distinctive agricultural produce with wider domestic and international markets while strengthening rural livelihoods and community-based enterprises.

The initiative brings together 85 Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) with a reported membership of 3,695, highlighting the role of collective efforts in preserving indigenous rice diversity, traditional farming knowledge and Odisha's agricultural heritage.

The rice varieties on display represent the state's diverse agro-climatic regions. Puri is showcasing Sarala, Sona Masoori, Pooja and Samrat, while Kendrapada is presenting Leelavati Aromatic Rice. Koraput is highlighting its GI-tagged Kaala Jeera rice. Mayurbhanj is exhibiting Mugei, Salafula and Kalachampa, while Bargarh is represented by Jasmine Black Rice.

Ganjam is showcasing Khanipaka and Labanya Black Rice, while Sundargarh is presenting Kanderajhal and Machkanta. Jagatsinghpur is contributing low-glycaemic-index rice, further highlighting the diversity of Odisha's traditional rice varieties.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said the conference would provide global exposure to Odisha's unique rice varieties. He noted that traditional rice varieties embody generations of farmers' knowledge, regional identity and rich biodiversity. The state aims to transform this agricultural heritage into expanded market opportunities, stronger rural livelihoods and inclusive growth.

ORMAS's participation extends beyond product displays, focusing on establishing direct market linkages between producer groups and buyers, wholesalers, retailers, processors, hotels, restaurants and institutional purchasers. The initiative seeks to promote commercial opportunities through branded, retail-ready packaging, product sampling, distribution networks, institutional supply and private-label partnerships.

Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik said ORMAS was working to bridge the gap between rural producers and markets. The focus, he said, was on strengthening community-based organisations, improving product presentation and market readiness, and developing partnerships that would enable farmers to benefit from the growing demand for distinctive, quality agricultural products.

The initiative also emphasises aggregation, quality assurance, packaging, branding and value addition to help producer groups expand their market presence and develop sustainable rural enterprises.

Odisha's participation in BIRC 2026 reflects the state's efforts to link agricultural diversity with enterprise development and improved market access. By promoting traditional rice varieties on a wider platform, the initiative seeks to enhance the visibility of local produce, strengthen market

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda