Agricultural Development And Food Security In Odisha

Food security has different dimensions. To understand the food security situation in the eastern Indian state of Odisha, this paper studied various agricultural development indicators and population growth including the workforce in the agriculture subsector over a 20-year period (pre- and post-globalisation). Data came from secondary sources and regression models were used to analyse the time series data for different crops. The marketable surplus/deficit of crops over a long period was also studied. The results showed comparatively good development in agriculture in Odisha. However, food insecurity still exists making it a serious issue in Odisha irrespective of various welfare schemes and subsidizations programs. The results also lead to the conclusion that beyond this welfare and subsidy/free programs, emphasis must be given on providing farmers with generous economic incentives to optimise their production from their existing arable lands and to increase their purchasing power. The poor should be given work and allowed to earn. After all, food security for all in Odisha can be obtained through the synergy of people having income and a government that supports farmers in crop productivity and intensification enhancement and ensures an effective public distribution system.