Odisha is a state in Eastern coast of India on the Bay of Bengal. The state is endowed by a vast range of natural resources such as rivers, minerals, forest etc. This makes Odisha a unique state in our country which has walked the path of progress through modern technology while also preserving and developing ethical, tribal and classical components of our culture.
Few years ago, the State was called as Orissa, however, in ancient past it was known as Utkala and Kalinga. A number of heritage sites, temples and monuments of Odisha are architectural marvels. Odisha is also famous for beaches, natural parks and several tourist attractions of natural beauty.
Economy
Manufacturing, mining and quarrying have the major contribution in the economy of the state in terms of value of output. However, in terms of employability of workforce, agriculture is the largest sector.
Agriculture including Animal Husbandry (fisheries, dairying etc.) is the main source of income for a large number of people in rural areas of the state. As per the Odisha Agriculture Statistics 2018-19, published by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment, Govt. of Odisha, approximately 60% people of the State earn their livelihood through Agriculture & allied activities.
Therefore, it can be understood that not only agriculture is the most important source of livelihood for people in Odisha, but also sustainable growth in agriculture sector is a pre-requisite to ensure food security. Growth in agriculture sector will have a direct impact on the overall socioeconomic growth of rural community.
Agriculture Sector
Rice, jute, oil seeds, soybean, maize and millets are the major crops grown in the state. In some parts, sugarcane, spices, pulses, coconut and rubber are also grown. However, the majority of areas are mono cropped with paddy during Kharif season. It can be said that Rice is the major crop in Kharif season, and similarly are pulses & oilseeds in Rabi season.
Facing tropical climate with high temperature, high humidity and medium to high rainfall, most of the rainfall received in the state is concentrated over a period of three months i.e. July to September during monsoon season.
Impact of climate change & deforestation
However, as one of the ill-effects of climate change, the rainfall varies from deficient to excess in large parts of the state which increases the risks associated with agriculture. Besides, due to indiscriminate deforestation, it leads to higher surface run-off of water, as a result lot of water received during monsoons finally runs-off to the Bay of Bengal.
Impact of climate change and deforestation on water resources of the state is increasingly noticeable. disproportionate distribution of rainfall makes it even more challenging for farmers to manage their livelihood.
Corollary
On one side Agricultural activities are fundamental to rural economy. However, these activities are seasonal and climate dependent. In such a scenario, it is vital to have alternate income-source with utilization of free time for livelihood income generation. There is need of awareness of opportunities, required skills, market connect, handholding support, institutional funding. Undoubtedly, rural women and community at large can sized to grow and develop further.