Malkangiri, 6/5/26: A block level awareness campaign on agricultural development activities for the current financial year has been successfully held in Chittakkonda block of Malkangari, in which Sarpanchs of all 18 Gram Panchayats participated. The aim of the program was to strengthen grassroots leadership and promote sustainable agricultural transitions in indigenous areas. The meeting was chaired by Hon’ble MLA Shri Mangu Khil and Hon’ble Mrs. Samari Tangulu, Chairperson, District Council; Mr. Dasarathi Sarabu, CIO-cum-EO, District Council; Mr. Anil Kumar Praharaj, Chief District Agricultural Officer, Malkangiri; Ms. Preeta Kumar, Group Development Officer, Chittagong and officials from various departments attended. The main objective of the workshop was to sensitize the farmers about the implementation of key schemes such as Special Program for Promotion of Integrated Agriculture, Balabhadra Organic Farming Mission, and Recovery and Sustainability of Forgotten Food and Neglected Crops. During the program, the broad objectives of the plans, proposed activities, expected benefits and potential problems were discussed in detail. Officials and public representatives held discussions to develop a joint action plan to ensure effective implementation of the programs. These initiatives are designed to transform Swabiman region into an emerging organic farming hub. Its main objective is to promote natural and organic farming methods, preserve local agricultural diversity and provide appropriate markets for farmers to provide higher value for organic produce. Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble MLA Shri Mangu Khil said that integrated agriculture is a key strategy to ensure year-round income generation, food security, nutritional security and livelihood sustainability for rural households. He urged the public representatives to actively participate in the process of transformation of Swaviman areas and encouraged the local leaders to sensitize the villages under them for mass adoption of the program by the farmers. Officials informed that all relevant departments will work through a joint action plan along with framing a schedule for comprehensive development of the Swabiman region. These measures will include science-based and technology-driven solutions to increase agricultural productivity, improve access to government schemes and services and ensure better income opportunities for farmers. It was decided in the workshop that panchayat-level discussions and awareness programs would be organized in the coming days to ensure wide dissemination among the farming community and facilitate greater participation in agricultural improvement initiatives.