Sambalpur, Odisha — Deputy Chief Minister has announced plans to establish a new campus of the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) in Sambalpur, expanding agricultural education and research in western Odisha.

Background OUAT, established in 1963, is a premier institution for agricultural sciences in the state, with existing campuses in Bhubaneswar and Koraput. Sambalpur, a key agricultural hub in western Odisha, has long lobbied for better access to higher education and technical training. The proposed campus aligns with the state’s focus on decentralising educational infrastructure to underserved regions.

Context and History The Deputy CM’s announcement follows years of advocacy by local leaders and farmers for improved agricultural resources. Previous attempts to secure a permanent agricultural institute in the region, such as a polytechnic started in 2018, faced delays due to funding and logistical challenges. The new OUAT campus is expected to address these gaps by offering degree programs and research facilities tailored to the region’s agro-climatic conditions.

Full Verified Sequence of Events The announcement was made during a recent visit by the Deputy CM to Sambalpur, where officials confirmed the project’s inclusion in the state’s 2025-26 budget discussions. As per official reports, the campus will be developed on a 50-acre site near the Sambalpur University campus, leveraging existing infrastructure. The initial phase will focus on establishing departments in agronomy, horticulture, and soil science, with admissions anticipated to begin in 2026.

Community Impact Local stakeholders have welcomed the move, citing its potential to boost employment and skill development. Farmers in the region, who primarily cultivate rice, maize, and pulses, hope the campus will introduce region-specific crop improvement programs. Officials emphasised that the project will also create construction jobs and stimulate demand for local services. The Deputy CM stated the initiative would “empower western Odisha through knowledge-driven agriculture.”

Local Significance Sambalpur, a cultural and educational centre in western Odisha, hosts institutions like Sambalpur University and IIT Bhubaneswar’s regional centre. The OUAT campus is expected to strengthen the district’s reputation as a knowledge hub while addressing the state’s goal of doubling farmers’ income by 2028.

What Happens Next The government has directed the OUAT administration to finalise the site’s master plan by December 2025. Funding approval and construction timelines will be detailed in the upcoming state budget. Officials have assured that community consultations will continue to ensure the campus meets regional needs.