Marigold: New Gold For Rayagada Farmers, Inspiring Farmers Across Odisha
Bhubaneswar: Marigold has long held a special place in the hearts of the people of Odisha. It is cherished for its aesthetic appeal and has been an integral part of religious occasions, functions, and festivals, gracing them as a symbol of decoration and purity. Traditionally, the marigolds came from neighbouring West Bengal to meet the high demand in Odisha. However, the Agriculture Production Cluster (APC) project in Rayagada has changed the landscape of marigold cultivation.
In 2019-20, the district administration, in collaboration with the Odisha Livelihood Mission (OLM), Mission Shakti, Directorate of Horticulture, and the APC partner PRADAN, initiated the cultivation of marigold in Rayagada. This venture aimed to provide an alternative livelihood for the APC farmers in the region.