Odisha: Engineer-Turned Farmer Scripts Success Story Through Innovation

A mechanical engineer by qualification, but farmer at heart, Udayanath Kar from Silandi village under Bhadrak’s Bonth block has taken farming to a different level through application of his professional skills and training.

In his 22-acre sprawling farmhouse Kar ensured that every inch of land is utilised fruitfully. Be it Kashmiri Apples, Guava and Napier grass or fish farming, poultry, vermin, or rabbits, his farmhouse is teeming with many innovative farming ideas.

As per reports, after completing his engineering, Kar had joined a private organisation as an engineer. However, only a day after joining, he resigned from his position and left for his home to do farming.

“I always wanted to provide employment to the needy while being self-dependant. So, I started this venture and it is going fine till now,” said a beaming Kar.

Now, he not only earns a handsome return from his venture, he has also provided employment to 20-30 persons in his farm, supporting their families around the year, even during the trying times of COVID lockdown.

Speaking about his success mantra, Kar said, “I try to implement the latest scientific techniques to get more yield from the available resources. Marketing is a major hurdle for we farmers here in Odisha. So, I make a thorough market study before venturing into any new farming areas.”

He has become a role model for others in that area. With zeal to make it big in life through innovation, Kars’ efforts has borne fruits.

His Farmhouse superviser, Prahallad Jena said, “We try to make seasonal business as well. We grow fruits and veggies as per the season and demand in the market.”

Baidhar Mahakud, a worker at the farmhouse said, “We are growing a lot of things here. I am quite happy working here. My employer never holds my salary back and pays on time.”

His efforts have earned him many awards from several organisations.