The Odisha government's Mission Shakti initiative has partnered with the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) to enhance women-led agriculture across the state. The collaboration aims to equip women farmers and self-help groups with improved agricultural knowledge, modern farming practices, and livelihood opportunities through scientific support and capacity building.

The partnership will focus on promoting sustainable and climate-resilient farming systems while encouraging better crop management, value addition, and market access. Training programmes and technical assistance are expected to help women adopt improved agricultural practices that increase productivity and strengthen rural incomes.

ICRISAT has extensive expertise in dryland agriculture and is internationally recognised for its research on crops such as pearl millet, finger millet, sorghum, and other climate-resilient cereals. Its involvement in the initiative is expected to support the wider adoption of resilient farming systems and improve food and nutritional security in vulnerable regions.

The collaboration also reflects the growing importance of women in agricultural development. By combining community-based institutions with scientific research, the initiative seeks to build stronger rural enterprises, encourage sustainable farming, and create long-term economic opportunities for women across Odisha.