Bhubaneswar, 19 January (H.S.):To empower Odisha’s fisheries and livestock sectors with modern technology and enhance farmers’ prosperity, the Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department will organize the State-level Matsya–Pranee Samavesh Odisha from January 21 to 23, 2026, at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar. The event will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, while the valedictory session will be graced by Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati.
Speaking at a press conference held today at the Veterinary College Auditorium, Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Minister Gokulananda Mallik said the Samavesh would serve as a major platform of awareness and prosperity for fish farmers and livestock rearers. He highlighted the State government’s continued efforts to make Odisha self-reliant in the production of milk, meat, eggs, and fish, and stated that the event would connect farmers with innovative and advanced technologies.
The three-day conclave will be held under the theme “Innovative Interventions in Fisheries and Livestock for Vikashit Odisha.” A total of 8,164 farmers from across the State—26 from each block—will participate. Additionally, 348 progressive farmers and entrepreneurs, representing six individuals from each subdivision, will be felicitated for their exemplary contributions to the sector. Twenty outstanding departmental officers will also be honored for their notable achievements.
The Samavesh will feature 12 interactive panel discussion sessions involving subject experts from across the country and abroad, focusing on key developments in fisheries, animal husbandry, and agriculture. Under the special “Ask the Minister” program, farmers will have the opportunity to directly raise their queries and suggestions with the Minister.
An extensive exhibition showcasing modern technologies and innovations will be organized across three large hangars, with around 208 stalls set up by various departments, companies, and institutions. Two open hangars will host live demonstrations of animals and fish, including bio-floc technology, cage culture fish farming, high-yield crossbred cows, sex-sorted semen calves, and environmentally controlled poultry houses.
Among the key attractions will be Murrah buffalo bulls “Surveer” and “Inder” from Haryana, the Punganur cow from Andhra Pradesh, and the Kankrej bull from Gujarat. These exhibits aim to create awareness among dairy farmers about improved breeding practices and productivity. Visitors will also enjoy a variety of engaging activities, including a virtual reality farm tour, dog show, pet fashion show, painting exhibition, drone and laser shows, poultry experience zone, pet zone, kids’ zone, and dedicated selfie points.
On the inaugural day, January 21, a Walkathon will be organized from Kalinga Stadium to Janata Maidan at 6 a.m. Debate and painting competitions for students are also being conducted, and winners will be awarded during the event.
The press meet was attended by Principal Secretary Suresh Kumar Vashishth, Director of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services Bijay Amruta Kulange, Director of Fisheries Mohammad Saddik Alam, along with other senior departmental officials.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
