The Online Agri-Entrepreneur (AE) Batch 18 in Odisha, implemented in partnership with SFI, successfully concluded its 40-day online training program on September 27, 2025. The training aimed to strengthen participants’ technical expertise, entrepreneurial skills, and extension capacity — preparing them to become catalysts for agricultural transformation in their communities. 

The comprehensive online training brought together 101 aspiring Agri-Entrepreneurs from over 50 villages across Balangir, Nuapada, Nabarangapur, Kalahandi, and Sambalpur districts. Conducted via Zoom, the sessions combined classroom learning with practical, interactive discussions, helping participants apply concepts to real-life rural challenges. 

The program focused on building a strong foundation in: 

• Soil Science and Crop Agronomy 

• Pest and Disease Management 

• Safe Use of Pesticides 

• Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) 

• Agri-Allied Business Development 

• Financial Literacy and Digital Banking 

• Soft Skills and Extension Techniques 

Training Highlights 

• 40 days of intensive, interactive online sessions. 

• 101 participants trained from five districts of Odisha. 

• Focus on climate-smart and sustainable farming practices. 

• Engaging modules combining technical learning and skill-building. 

• Brainstorming activities and real-life case discussions for better understanding. 

• Trainers and mentors received appreciation for interactive and practical teaching. 

The valedictory ceremony witnessed enthusiastic feedback, with participants sharing how the program enhanced their confidence and encouraged them to explore entrepreneurship and agri-allied ventures. 

One participant shared, “Before this training, I had no background in agriculture. Honestly, I thought online training would be boring, but this one kept me interested. The examples were real and easy to understand.” 

Outcomes & Impact 

The training empowered youth to become knowledge-driven rural entrepreneurs, capable of guiding farmers on best practices and innovative solutions. The participants are now equipped to: 

• Promote climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture. 

• Lead awareness on safe pesticide uses and input management. 

• Strengthen financial inclusion and agri-allied business ventures. 

• Support digital adoption in rural communities. 

This initiative demonstrates how structured digital learning can bridge knowledge gaps, enhance entrepreneurial capacity, and create a new generation of tech-enabled Agri-Entrepreneurs driving inclusive agricultural growth in Odisha.