Meet Paula Pradhan, the Sarpanch of Pliheri Panchayat in Odisha's Daringbadi block, he is no ordinary public servant. He's a leader who not only addresses the needs of his community but also gets his hands dirty – literally! He's become a local hero for his dedication to farming, growing a variety of vegetables and even strawberries on his own land.
Elected in 2022, Paula Pradhan didn't let his official duties stop him from pursuing his passion. He splits his day between serving the people and working on his farm, setting a unique example. His wife, Timati Pradhan, is his partner in this endeavor, supporting him every step of the way.
It all started with a small patch of land where he grew staples like cabbage, cauliflower, potatoes, and mangoes. Success bred confidence, and this year, he expanded, dedicating an acre to strawberries. The results are stunning – a vibrant field of red strawberries and various vegetables. It is a beautiful view to watch.
The best part? His farm has become a source of employment for many villagers, men and women alike. He's not just growing food; he's growing opportunities. He also encourages others to take up farming, sharing his knowledge and experience.
The produce from his farm is in high demand. Locals line up to buy fresh vegetables and strawberries, traders come directly to the farm, and some of the harvest even makes its way to markets outside the district. Paula Pradhan's hard work is paying off, both financially and in terms of community impact. He says he makes lakhs of rupees from his farm.
Paula Pradhan embodies the saying, "Farming brings immense happiness." His story is a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and a leader's commitment to both public service and personal passion. He is a great inspiration, showing that one person can make a significant difference by combining traditional practices with a modern approach. He proves to be a real son of the soil.
