Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Odisha’s young farmer Hirod Patel during his Mann Ki Baat radio programme, calling his farming model a shining example of how tradition and technology can work together.Modi emphasised that farmers are not only food providers but also caretakers of the earth. He noted that modern farmers focus on quality, value addition, and new markets alongside higher production.Highlighting Patel’s journey, Modi said that eight years ago, Patel cultivated paddy in the traditional way with his father, Shiv Shankar Patel. Over time, he began experimenting with innovative methods to maximise resources.Patel developed an integrated farming system on his land. He installed a strong mesh structure over his farm pond to grow creeper vegetables. Around the pond, he planted banana, guava, and coconut trees. At the same time, he introduced fish farming in the pond.This combined approach improved land use, conserved water, and boosted income. By cultivating crops, fruits, and fish at one location, Patel diversified his output and reduced reliance on a single source of earnings.Modi said Patel’s success has inspired farmers across regions. Many now visit his farm to learn and replicate the integrated farming system.
