PM Modi Applauds Odisha Farmer's Revolutionary Vertical Farming Approach
In the 131st episode of his Mann Ki Baat radio programme on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the inspiring journey of 35-year-old Hirod Patel, a farmer from Sundargarh, Odisha. The Prime Minister praised Patel for transitioning from conventional paddy cultivation to an innovative, integrated vertical farming system, setting a remarkable example in sustainable agriculture.
From Traditional Paddy to Smart Farming
Prime Minister Modi recounted how, until about eight years ago, Hirod Patel worked alongside his father, Shiv Shankar Patel, in traditional paddy farming. However, driven by a desire for change, Patel began to approach agriculture from a fresh perspective. His shift has not only transformed his own livelihood but also attracted attention from farmers across the region.
The Prime Minister detailed the innovative model, explaining that Patel constructed bamboo trellises over a pond on his farm. On these structures, he grows vegetable creepers, while also planting bananas, guavas, and coconuts around the pond's perimeter. Additionally, he practices pisciculture in the water, creating a holistic ecosystem.
Award-Winning Success and Recognition
Three years ago, Hirod Patel's integrated farming system gained widespread recognition when he received the 'Successful Young Progressive Farmer Award'. This accolade underscored his achievements in combining climber cultivation with fish farming in his farm pond. Patel expressed immense happiness at receiving praise from the Prime Minister, noting that it validates his efforts and inspires others.
In his address, PM Modi emphasized, "The story of a young farmer named Hirod Patel in Odisha is truly inspiring. In other words, traditional farming, vegetables, fruits, and fish are all being undertaken in one place. This has led to better land use, water savings, and additional income. Today, farmers from far and wide come over to see his model."
Benefits of the Integrated Vertical Farming System
The innovative approach offers multiple advantages:
- Enhanced Land Utilization: By using vertical space and integrating multiple crops and fish, Patel maximizes productivity on limited land.
- Water Conservation: The system promotes efficient water use through shared resources between plants and aquaculture.
- Increased Income Streams: Diversifying into vegetables, fruits, and fish provides additional revenue sources, reducing dependency on single crops.
- Sustainability: This model supports environmental health by reducing waste and promoting natural synergies.
Hirod Patel's success story serves as a beacon for farmers seeking to adopt modern, sustainable practices. His journey from traditional methods to a cutting-edge integrated system demonstrates how innovation can drive agricultural transformation and economic growth in rural India.
