Progressive Farmer Avneesh Patra from Gariaband Honored at the National Level

Raipur : Progressive farmer Avneesh Patra from Chichinya village, Devbhog block, Gariaband district, has been honored as an Innovative Farmer at the Agricultural Science Fair organized by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi. He is the only farmer from Chhattisgarh to receive this prestigious award, which was presented to him by ICAR Director General Dr. Himanshu Pathak.

Under the guidance of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur, and Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Gariaband, Avneesh Patra underwent technical training and started betel leaf cultivation. Initially, he cultivated betel leaves using shade net farming, but later, with the assistance of agricultural scientists, he analyzed moisture and temperature conditions and successfully transitioned to growing betel leaves in mango orchards. This innovative approach has enabled him to successfully produce betel leaves commercially for the past two years. Currently, he cultivates Bilouri, Bangla, Meetha, and Kapoori varieties of betel leaves.

By adopting an integrated farming system, Patra has transformed agriculture into a profitable business. His farming operations include grain crops on 3 acres, fruit cultivation on 5 acres, forestry and medicinal crops on 1 acre, along with a dairy farm with 22 cows and a poultry farm with 200 chickens. His annual income has reached approximately ₹15 lakh, making his agricultural venture both successful and lucrative. His dedication and adoption of modern farming techniques serve as an inspiration for other farmers in the region.

Avneesh Patra has previously been honored with the Millionaire Farmer of India Award (2023) and the Krishi Ratna Award (2019). On this remarkable achievement, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Girish Chandel and Director of Extension Dr. S.S. Tuteja extended their congratulations and best wishes to him.