CUO students win INNOVISION 2026 with a solar-powered seed pelleting machine, boosting germination, sustainability, and smart farming innovation
OdishaPlus Bureau
The Department of Agriculture at the Central University of Odisha (CUO) has earned national recognition at INNOVISION 2026 – “Innovative Solutions for Technical Problems”, held on 26 April 2026 at Synergy Institute of Technology, Bhubaneswar, in collaboration with SKD Patent Services, Kolkata.
Competing among 65 registered innovations, with 35 selected for final presentations, CUO secured the 1st Prize, marking a significant milestone for the University and showcasing the rising strength of student-led agricultural innovation in India.
The award-winning solution was developed by Swapnarani Biswal (3rd Year B.Sc. Agriculture) and Abhisikta Sahu (2nd Year B.Sc. Agriculture), who represented CUO with exceptional commitment and scientific insight.
The project addresses a persistent agricultural challenge in large-scale sowing systems. In traditional broadcasting methods, lightweight seeds are often displaced during irrigation—especially flood irrigation—leading to uneven germination, reduced crop uniformity, and lower productivity.
To solve this, the team developed a solar-powered seed pelleting (coating) machine that enhances seed weight and size through coating technology. The process not only improves seed stability but also enriches seeds with essential fertilizers and micronutrients, ensuring stronger early plant growth.
Powered by solar energy, the system is cost-effective, energy-efficient, and environmentally sustainable, making it highly suitable for rural and off-grid farming regions.
The innovation was developed in collaboration with experts from Navsari Agricultural University, including Dr. Vipul Shinde (HoD, Agricultural Engineering), Dr. Ashish, and Er. Subham Dhakad, along with Dr. Manjushree Singh, (HoD Agriculture), CUO, Koraput.
The technology has been further refined to align with the soil conditions, terrain, and farming practices of the Koraput region, ensuring real-world applicability and impact.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. N. C. Panda appreciated the achievement, highlighting the dedication of students and collaborating scientists in addressing pressing agricultural challenges through innovation.
