Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates engaged in discussions with Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at his official residence, where they delved into technology-driven initiatives aimed at empowering farmers. Gates, who arrived in Odisha on Tuesday, exchanged views with the chief minister concerning various governmental projects and endeavors.
"Privileged to have met with @Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Mr. @BillGates. Engaged in enlightening discussions on our technology-oriented efforts to empower farmers, along with other impactful welfare initiatives such as #JagaMission, #MissionShakti, #OdishaSchoolTransformation, #BSKY, and advancements in healthcare," Patnaik shared on X, expressing his appreciation for the support provided by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in promoting inclusive progress.
Furthermore, Patnaik conveyed his gratitude for Gates' acknowledgment of Odisha's welfare schemes and accomplishments across diverse sectors facilitated by the #5T transformative governance approach.
In the morning, Gates made a visit to a slum located in Bhubaneswar, where he interacted with the local residents. Accompanied by state government officials, he toured the Biju Adarsh Colony within the Maa Mangla Basti vicinity.
In addition to inquiring about the well-being of the slum dwellers, Gates engaged with members of women's self-help groups (SHGs). State Development Commissioner Anu Garg noted, "We showcased the provision of land rights, access to tap water, sanitation facilities, and electricity to the slum residents. Gates expressed contentment witnessing the positive transformation of the slum area into a model settlement."
State Urban Development Secretary G Mathi Vathanan highlighted Gates' interactions with beneficiaries of various government welfare schemes during his visit. Reflecting on the visit, a resident of the colony mentioned Gates' interest in understanding the impact of the schemes on their lives, particularly the improvements in their living conditions.
Subsequently, Gates proceeded to Krushi Bhawan, the headquarters of the state's agriculture and farmers' empowerment department. Odisha has been collaborating with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation since 2017 to advance shared objectives concerning farmers' income enhancement, nutrition security, and climate resilience.
"This partnership has facilitated Odisha's emergence as a pioneer in digital public infrastructure, with the implementation of farmer-centric platforms such as the Krushak Odisha database, GO-SUGAM portal, and Ama Krushi extension system," elucidated a senior official.
With support from the Foundation, the government has successfully conducted pilots focusing on crop diversification through projects like Maize Mandi and agriculture production clusters (APCs), which have now been scaled up statewide. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, principal secretary of the agriculture and farmers' empowerment department, highlighted discussions surrounding the future trajectory of digital agriculture in Odisha, emphasizing the state's aspiration to pioneer an end-to-end technology framework spanning agriculture, livestock, and fisheries sectors.
Moreover, Gates interacted with two accomplished women farmers who have augmented their incomes through the digital public infrastructure established by the department. Padhee underscored the accomplishments of the Odisha Millets Mission, particularly its positive impact on enhancing the livelihoods of tribal communities in the state.
