Padmapada, a small village in the Gop block of Puri District, Odisha, has long relied on agriculture for livelihood. However, erratic weather patterns and traditional farming methods often left farmers struggling to make ends meet. Premanand Behara, a resident of this village, faced similar hardships. Owning just one acre of farmland, he cultivated rice using conventional techniques that resulted in low production and minimal profits. The high cost of chemical fertilizers and pesticides further strained his resources, making it difficult to sustain his family.
The struggle was relentless. Rising fertilizer costs, pest infestations, and unpredictable rainfall meant that many times, he barely broke even. He watched helplessly as his neighbors abandoned farming and migrated to cities in search of work. But for Premanand, farming was not just a livelihood it was a way of life, a heritage passed down for generations.
“I remember nights when I couldn’t sleep, wondering how I would repay my debts and manage his joint family,” he recalls. The burden of uncertainty weighed heavily on him.
A turning point came in 2021 when Prayatn Sanstha, in collaboration with HDFC Bank Parivartan, introduced the Holistic Rural Development Project (HRDP) in 15 villages of Gop block of Puri, including Padmapada. The project aimed to empower marginalized communities by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities. A dedicated team established various village-level institutions and organized meetings to introduce new farming techniques, focusing on creating self-reliant, healthier communities.
Recognizing his interest in innovative farming methods, the Village Development Committee (VDC) selected him to participate in a Paddy Cluster Development initiative focusing on Jira Rice, a high-value fragrant variety. He also received training at the Farm Field School (FFS), where he learned about the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) an organic farming method that promised better yields with less water, fewer seeds, and no harmful chemicals.
Under the guidance of Prayatn’s agricultural experts, he prepared his land using Jeevamrit and Amritjal organic fertilizers that naturally enrich the soil. He followed expert recommendations, ensuring proper plant spacing, reducing water usage, and replacing chemical pesticides with neem-based alternatives.
The results were astonishing. When the harvest season arrived, his field produced 19 quintals of Jira Rice, a highly aromatic variety that fetched a premium price in the market. His earnings from the sale doubled compared to previous years, giving him financial security for the first time in his life.
Success changed his life. With the extra income, he cleared some of his debts and ensured his children’s education. Today, he is a mentor to other farmers, sharing his experience and encouraging them to embrace organic farming.
“For the first time, I feel like my land is alive again,” he says with pride. His journey proves that with the right support and knowledge, even the smallest farmer can achieve prosperity.
