CGIAR Climate Action Program launched in Odisha

The International Water Management Institute (IWMI), in partnership with ICAR-Indian Institute of Water Management (ICAR-IIWM), officially launched the CGIAR Climate Action Program in Odisha. The launch marks a significant step toward advancing climate-resilient, inclusive, and low-emission development across the state

The program was formally launched by Anu Garg, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Water Resources and Development Commissioner, Government of Odisha. Also present were Kamal Lochan Mishra, IAS, Executive Director, Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA), Government of Odisha, and Dr. A. K. Nayak, Deputy Director General (Natural Resource Management), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).

The launch event brought together key stakeholders including representatives from various state departments, academic and research institutions, development partners, and civil society organizations. Discussions focused on strengthening climate risk management, scaling digital climate services, and accelerating locally led adaptation and innovation pathways.

Odisha, one of India’s most climate-vulnerable states, faces frequent cyclones, floods, droughts, and rising temperatures, impacting agriculture, water systems, and rural livelihoods. The CGIAR Climate Action Program is designed to complement the State’s ongoing climate efforts by providing actionable science, technology-based solutions, and multi-stakeholder partnerships. The program will focus on work across key areas including strategic foresight, early warning systems, low-emission food systems, and climate finance.

Expected outcomes of the program include: Alignment of CGIAR innovations with Odisha’s SAPCC and development priorities; identification of target geographies and sectors for early implementation; joint capacity development initiatives involving government, academia, and civil society; formation of an advisory group to guide program rollout and scaling and mobilization of partnerships and climate finance for sustained impact.

IWMI and CGIAR reaffirm their commitment to working closely with the Government of Odisha and partners to build resilient food, land, and water systems in the face of growing climate challenges.