“Role of Gender in Agriculture Food System and Climate Change”
Bhubaneswar 13th January 2026 (ADN) FWWB India hosted the 2nd Odisha State Consultation workshop bringing together representatives from FPOs, NGOs, CBBOs, State and Central Government agencies. The programme was graced by Ms. Gupa Poonam tapas Kumar, IAS, Commissioner- cum- Secretary, Department of Handloom, Textiles & Handicrafts and Revenue Divisional Commissioner (CD), Govt. of Odisha, as Chief Guest.
FWWB (Friends of Women’s World Banking) Hosted the consultation featured in-depth panel and group discussions focusing on the role of farm women in farming and farmer collectives, access to finance, market linkages, and technology adoption for FPOs besides the challenges faced by rural women particularly in Agriculture sector. The panel discussion was moderated by Dr. Debasish Mohapatra, Associate Professor, KIIT School of Rural Management, while ‘Dr. (Ms.) Sarbani Das, Joint Director- Extension (Information) & PI, Centre of Excellence for FPOs, OUAT’ ‘Mr. Subhrajit Satapathy, Senior Manager, NABKISAN’, ‘Mr. Amit Parida, State Head, SAMMUNATI’, ‘Mr. Tara Prasad Tripathy, Integrator, PRADAN’, ‘Mr. Kedar Chandra Pradhan, Regional Manager, AYEKART’, participated as panel members. Representative from palladium Odisha, made a detailed presentation on women-led rural FPOs and collectives in the state of Odisha.
The event successfully highlighted the importance of gender mainstreaming by strengthening women’s leadership and decision-making roles within Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and local institutions. It showcased gender-inclusive and climate-resilient agricultural practices through practical CSA model demonstrations that supported women farmers. The program also facilitated access to finance by linking women farmers and FPOs with financial institutions and climate-finance opportunities. In addition, participants were introduced to user-friendly, gender-sensitive technologies aimed at improving productivity and enhancing market orientation. Overall, the event contributed significantly to empowering women farmers while promoting sustainable, climate-resilient and inclusive agricultural development.
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