Climate Change has a special relevance for Odisha because of its location and geophysical conditions.  Climate Change has the potential to derail the current growth strategies and deepen poverty. The direct impacts of extreme climate induced events could include loss of life, livelihood, assets and infrastructure. Considering the concern, Odisha has taken early initiative to formulate Climate Change Action Plan in a holistic manner. Climate Change Action Plan for the State of Odisha assumes greater significance.

Odisha is one of the first states to formulate a comprehensive action plan to address the climate change issues. The plan which has been formulated by an inter-departmental team is a coordinated government response to this important problem which looms large. Eleven sectoral missions such as Agriculture, Coast and Disaster, Energy, Fisheries and Animal Resources, Forests, Health, Industries, Mining, Transport, Urban and water Resources were identified.  The plan also incorporates civil society inputs.The activities as envisaged in the Climate Change Action Plan are being implemented by various departments and agencies. The implementations of the activities are also being reviewed by a Monitoring and Advisory Committee of Climate Change Action Plan which is headed by the Chief Secretary.