KVK-Khordha Observes World Food Day 2025: A Call for Better Foods and a Better Future

16 October 2025, Khordha

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khordha (ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Bhubaneswar), in collaboration with ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata, celebrated World Food Day 2025 with the global theme ‘Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.’ The programme, organized at Athantara village under Balipatna Block, focused on collective action to build a sustainable, nutritious, and food-secure future.

The event was virtually inaugurated by Dr. Pradip Dey, Director, ICAR-ATARI, Kolkata, who encouraged farmers to adopt eco-friendly practices that promote safe and wholesome food production under the One Health approach. He lauded KVK-Khordha’s initiatives in empowering farming communities and emphasized the importance of collaboration among government departments, FPOs, and local organizations to strengthen sustainable agri-food systems. He further highlighted the need for balanced nutrition, sustainable agriculture, and efficient water management to combat hidden hunger and ensure food and nutrition security for all.

The programme also highlighted the pivotal role of farmers and farmwomen in safeguarding national food and nutrition security. Experts discussed the significance of agriculture and fisheries in realizing the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat, underscoring the goal of achieving self-sufficiency in food production at the grassroots level.

As part of the celebration, four progressive farmers and farmwomen were felicitated for their exemplary contributions to agriculture and allied sectors. To promote household nutrition security, vegetable seed kits were distributed among participants to encourage the establishment of nutri-gardens, ensuring access to fresh and healthy produce.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 80 attendees, including women Self-Help Group members, representatives from Farmer Producer Companies, and officials from KVK-Khordha.

(Source: ICAR- Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata)