PM Modi Lauds Odisha Farmer’s Innovative Integrated Farming in Mann Ki Baat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his latest Mann Ki Baat address, praised the pioneering efforts of Hirod Patel, a young farmer from Ratanpur village in Sundargarh district, Odisha.

Patel has successfully transformed his eight-acre farm into a model of integrated farming, combining aquaculture with vertical and floating vegetable cultivation.

His approach includes creeper vegetables grown on mesh structures over ponds, bananas, guavas, and coconuts planted around the pond, alongside fish farming within the water body.

This sustainable model maximises land use, conserves water, and generates multiple streams of income.

Patel shifted from traditional paddy farming eight years ago, adopting this innovative method with his father. His success story reflects the growing trend of sustainable agriculture across India.

PM Modi also highlighted Kerala’s Thrissur district, where 570 rice varieties are cultivated in a single field, preserving seed heritage.

He noted that India has become the world’s largest rice producer, with output reaching 150 million tons.

Additionally, products like Nanjangud bananas and Mysuru betel leaves are now being exported to countries such as the Maldives, showcasing India’s agricultural diversity and global appeal.