CSIR-IHBT Launches Smart Village Mission in Odisha

The CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology has launched the Smart Village Mission in Kusunpur, Odisha, aligning with the Prime Minister's vision for a developed India. The event featured the distribution of fortified food kits and showcased various technologies aimed at improving local livelihoods. With active participation from the community and local administration, the initiative aims to integrate innovative solutions at the village level to combat malnutrition and promote sustainable development. Discover how this mission is set to transform rural communities.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 17, 2026, 18:29 IST

Inauguration of Smart Village Mission Activities

Vikal Sharma
Palampur

Recently, the CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT) took part in the launch of the CSIR Smart Village Mission at Kusunpur Village in Kendrapara, Odisha. This initiative is in line with the Prime Minister's vision for a 'Viksit Bharat'. The event was officially opened by Sh. Raghuram R. Iyer, the Collector and District Magistrate.

The event showcased a variety of technologies and products developed by CSIR IHBT, including fortified foods aimed at addressing malnutrition, floral crafts, handicrafts, and integrated apiculture products such as honey and bee pollen. The program saw enthusiastic participation from the local community, the Kendrapara District administration, and other CSIR laboratory partners.

During the event, dignitaries distributed POSHAN Maitree kits, which contain protein and iron-fortified food products developed by CSIR IHBT, to the women of Kusunpur village.

Additionally, the CSIR IHBT team organized an awareness and interaction session for the villagers. Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, the Director General of CSIR, highlighted the importance of integrating CSIR technologies at the village level to meet the objectives of Viksit Bharat by 2047. The CSIR-IHBT team expressed their gratitude to the local administration and the residents of Kusunpur for their support and cooperation.