Industry Odisha Bureau, Oct 22: Odisha has signalled its intent to merge clean energy with agriculture. A high-level state delegation joined the 7th AgriVoltaics World Conference 2026 at Bharat Mandapam.
Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo led the Odisha team. Additional Chief Secretary (Energy) Vishal Dev accompanied him at the summit. Agriculture and Farmers Empowerment Secretary Sachin Ramachandra Jadhav was also part of the delegation.
The conference drew global leaders, researchers and policymakers to the national capital. Discussions centred on blending solar power generation with modern farming systems.
The event placed special emphasis on empowering nations of the Global South. Technical sessions explored ways to deepen South-South cooperation in this emerging field. Experts discussed technology transfer and crop performance under solar panel shade. Panels also examined farmer-centric policies to promote dual use of land.
Odisha’s participation reflects its growing interest in next-generation green technology. The state hopes to align its rural energy policies with global best practices.
Agrivoltaics allows solar panels to be installed directly above cultivated farmland. This dual-use model helps Odisha address land scarcity and clean energy needs together. Land-use efficiency improves as the same plot yields both crops and power.
Smallholder farmers stand to gain an extra income from electricity generation. The panels also shield crops from extreme heat and reduce water evaporation. Agricultural yields remain stable while the farmland generates clean energy.
Integrating solar energy with agriculture fits well into Odisha’s wider clean energy vision. It offers a strong economic and environmental roadmap for the state. Participation in such global forums strengthens Odisha’s image as a sustainability leader. The move lays the groundwork for a green transition centred on rural livelihoods. It also promises greater climate resilience for the state’s farming communities.
