Soil erosion, declining groundwater, and ecological damage hamper rural agricultural productivity. Farmers struggle to adopt sustainable practices and access modern technology, leading to stagnant incomes and increased migration.

The Integrated Watershed Development Programme in Angul, spanning 4,500 acres, enhances agricultural productivity while prioritising biodiversity and ecosystem health. Key initiatives include:

• Conservation Efforts: Massive plantation of 42,000 saplings with a 90% survival rate, reducing soil erosion and increasing canopy coverage.
• Agricultural Modernisation: Introduction of high-yield crop varieties (e.g., soyabean, yam, high yield guavas, groundnuts, coconuts, bananas, capsicum, lettuce, broccoli) and scientific methods like System of Rice Intensification, trellis farming, and shade-net houses for nursery raising.
• Community Empowerment: Formation of farmers' clubs, SHGs, and water user groups, promoting crop diversification and income-generating activities like mushroom farming and fishery.
• Women Empowerment: Revival of 96 women SHGs, linked to banks for micro-enterprise support such as vermicomposting and mushroom cultivation.
• Capital Support: Collaborations with banks and government to provide farm inputs and financial assistance for sustainable farming practices.