During a recent visit to the picturesque farm of Netrananda Lenka, I was struck by the harmony between nature and human endeavor. In the picturesque village of Patraput near Jeypore in the Koraput district, a remarkable 82-year-old farmer named Netrananda Lenka has become an inspiring figure for many. A retired government employee, Netrananda has dedicated his post-retirement life to pioneering sustainable farming practices and demonstrating the potential of agricultural entrepreneurship.
Netrananda, a vibrant and dedicated farmer, was seated under a simple yet elegant shade. This shade, ingeniously crafted from bamboo and thatched with paddy straw, exuded a rustic charm that blended seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
As I approached, the serene ambiance of the farm enveloped me, and I couldn’t resist capturing the moment. The shade, with its earthy materials and traditional design, stood as a testament to the beauty of sustainable living. The sun’s rays filtered softly through the paddy straw, casting a gentle glow on Netrananda’s face, which bore the marks of a life devoted to nurturing the land.
In that fleeting moment, the shade seemed to encapsulate the essence of Netrananda’s agricultural philosophy: simplicity, respect for nature, and the profound wisdom that comes from years of hands-on experience. Without wasting any time, I reached for my camera and took a photograph, eager to preserve this memory.
This image, much like Netrananda’s farm, is a reminder of the quiet, enduring beauty found in the harmony of nature and human effort. It is a scene that stays with you, a moment of peace and inspiration that encourages us all to appreciate and protect the world we live in.
As I sat under the shade with Netrananda Lenka, I spent my beautiful moments listening to his story. He shared tales of innovation in agriculture, where his ingenuity and dedication have led to remarkable achievements. From sustainable farming techniques to the introduction of new crop varieties, Netrananda’s farm is a living testament to the power of creativity and hard work.
But it wasn’t just his agricultural innovations that captivated me. It was the essence of entrepreneurship that radiated from every word he spoke. Netrananda’s journey from a retired government employee to a pioneering farmer is a story of passion, resilience, and unwavering commitment. He has turned his vision into reality, inspiring countless others to see farming not just as a livelihood, but as an opportunity for innovation and growth.
Today, I feel compelled to share Netrananda Lenka’s inspiring story with you. His life and work remind us of the profound impact one individual can have on their community and the environment. Netrananda’s farm, with its simple bamboo and paddy straw shade, symbolizes the beauty and potential of sustainable agriculture. It stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who aspire to make a difference.
In a world where we often overlook the quiet, everyday heroes, Netrananda’s story is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary achievements that can arise from ordinary beginnings. Let his journey inspire you to pursue your passions, embrace sustainability, and recognize the boundless possibilities within the realm of agriculture.
A New Beginning in Agriculture:
After retiring from his government job, Netrananda decided to return to his agricultural roots. With a vision to make a difference in his community, he ventured into vermicompost production. Unlike many who might find such an endeavor daunting, Netrananda embraced it with enthusiasm and determination, proving that vermicompost making does not require advanced scientific knowledge but a willingness to learn and innovate.
Transforming Vermicompost into a Profitable Venture:
Netrananda’s venture into vermicompost has not only been a personal success but a source of inspiration for the local youth. By showcasing the simplicity and profitability of vermicompost production, he has encouraged many young people in the region to consider it as a viable business opportunity. His message is clear: sustainable farming can be both environmentally friendly and economically rewarding.
“There is such a huge demand for vermicompost (in several tonnes) that I am not able to supply,” said Lenka.
A Diverse and Sustainable Farm:
Netrananda’s 9-acre farm is a testament to his dedication and hard work. He cultivates a variety of crops, including rice, mango, pineapple, and bamboo. Additionally, he manages a well-organized dairy farm, contributing to the diversity and sustainability of his agricultural practices. However, it is his vermicompost production that stands out as his primary source of income, highlighting the significant financial potential of organic farming methods.
Cow dung and cow urine are fed into biogas plants, and the slurry is pumped to the rice field. Solid slurry is fed into vermicompost tanks, creating a cycle of sustainable practices.
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Championing Black Rice and Seed Conservation:
Lenka is also famous for his black rice seed conservation. He has conserved over 200 varieties of rice in his fields, including the highly demanded black rice, which sells for Rs. 100 per kilogram. His efforts in seed conservation ensure the preservation of biodiversity and provide high-quality produce to the market.
Supported by Government Initiatives:
Netrananda’s success is also supported by the Integrated Farming System Scheme of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, Government of Odisha. This support has enabled him to expand his farming operations and enhance his productivity.
A Thriving Dairy Farm:
Netrananda’s farm is home to more than 50 cows of different varieties, including Jersey, Gir, Desi cows, and the Motu breed. His dairy farm is not only a source of income but also a learning platform for many. Visitors to his farm can observe how efficiently he manages his diverse agricultural activities.
Bamboo Farming and Innovative Techniques:
Netrananda also engages in bamboo farming on one acre of his land, earning about Rs. 2 lakhs per annum from this venture. He has never used chemical fertilizers, relying solely on natural inputs and vermicompost. This year, he experimented with growing chia seeds and successfully cultivated pumpkins using the innovative 3G cutting technique, which yielded a bumper harvest. With an investment of Rs.62,000/- in pumpkin cultivation in one acre, he could harvest 20 metric tons of pumpkin. He sold all his pumpkins for an amount of Rs.2,00,000/-, gaining a profit of Rs.1,38,000/- in this Rabi season. His forward-thinking approach ensures that his agricultural activities are always ahead of the curve.
Value Addition and Entrepreneurship:
At his farm, Netrananda performs all the value-addition processes. He mills his paddy and packages scented rice, selling it at Rs. 100 per kilogram. Additionally, he adds value to his dairy products by making paneer and ghee. His process for making Gir cow ghee, which sells for Rs. 2500 per kilogram, and Jersey cow ghee, which sells for Rs. 1200 per kilogram, is particularly noteworthy. Furthermore, he produces his mustard oil from the oilseed crops he grows. The surplus oil is sold in the market at a good price, ranging from Rs. 300 to Rs. 350 per litre. His dedication to quality and innovation in value addition sets his farm apart.
Training the Next Generation:
Beyond his farming activities, Netrananda is dedicated to educating and empowering the local youth. He conducts training sessions on organic farming, passing on his knowledge and expertise to the next generation of farmers. His commitment to education and sustainability is shaping a brighter future for his community.
An Impactful Legacy:
Through his innovative approach and commitment to sustainable agriculture, Netrananda Lenka has left an indelible mark on his community. His efforts have not only improved his own livelihood but have also provided a blueprint for others to follow. By promoting vermicompost production, diverse farming practices, and seed conservation, he has fostered a sense of hope and possibility among local farmers and youth.
An Inspiration for All:
Netrananda Lenka’s story is a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to making a significant impact. His journey from a retired government employee to a pioneering farmer demonstrates the power of determination, innovation, and the willingness to embrace new challenges. Netrananda’s work continues to inspire those around him, proving that sustainable agriculture is the way forward for a healthier, more prosperous future.
Author: Tapas Chandra Roy, Block Agriculture Officer, DA&FE, Govt. of Odisha. Documenting and disseminating success stories of farmers to inspire millions of farmers across India.
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