India lost a beacon of sustainable agriculture and tribal empowerment on July 20, 2024, with the passing of Padma Shri awardee Kamala Pujari. At the age of 76, Pujari’s legacy lives on through her dedication to organic farming and preserving indigenous paddy varieties.

Hailing from the Paroja tribe in Patraput village, Odisha, Pujari’s life was deeply connected to the land. Born into a family of farmers, she witnessed firsthand the importance of traditional agricultural practices. Unlike many who turned to chemical-intensive methods, Pujari remained steadfast in her commitment to organic farming.

A Life Dedicated to Organic Practices

Pujari’s journey began at a young age. Recognizing the value of biodiversity and the resilience of native seeds, she started saving indigenous paddy varieties. This foresight proved invaluable, as these heritage seeds offered a natural alternative to commercially produced, high-yielding varieties.

Throughout her life, Pujari championed organic farming methods. She understood the importance of healthy soil, natural pest control, and crop rotation. Her practices not only ensured sustainable harvests but also protected the environment from the harmful effects of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

Preserving a Heritage: Indigenous Paddy Seeds

Pujari’s dedication went beyond simply growing crops organically. She recognized the importance of preserving the rich heritage of indigenous paddy seeds in India. Over the years, she meticulously collected and nurtured hundreds of these traditional varieties. These seeds, with their unique flavors and adaptability to local conditions, were on the verge of disappearing due to the introduction of commercially produced, high-yielding but less diverse varieties.

Pujari’s efforts ensured the survival of these seeds, not just for her own use but for future generations. They represent a treasure trove of genetic diversity, offering valuable resources for researchers and farmers alike. These seeds hold the potential for developing new and resilient crop varieties that can withstand changing environmental conditions.

Empowering Tribal Communities

Pujari’s work extended beyond her own fields. She actively shared her knowledge and experience with other farmers, particularly those from her own tribal community. She understood the challenges faced by tribal farmers and strived to empower them through sustainable practices. By promoting organic farming methods and the use of indigenous seeds, she helped them achieve greater self-sufficiency and economic independence.

Her efforts not only improved agricultural yields but also fostered a sense of pride in traditional knowledge and practices. She became a role model for tribal women, demonstrating that they can be leaders in agricultural sustainability.

Recognition and Awards

Pujari’s dedication to organic farming and her tireless work in preserving indigenous seeds did not go unnoticed. In 2019, she was conferred the prestigious Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian awards, in recognition of her contributions to agriculture. The award further validated her work and brought national attention to the importance of organic farming and seed preservation.

Besides the Padma Shri, Pujari also received the 2002 Equator Initiative Award for her work in promoting sustainable practices and tribal empowerment. These awards not only acknowledged her achievements but also inspired others to follow her path.

A Legacy of Sustainability

Kamala Pujari’s life is a testament to the power of traditional knowledge and a deep connection to the land. She leaves behind a legacy of sustainable agriculture, a commitment to preserving biodiversity, and a spirit of empowerment for tribal communities. Her work serves as an inspiration for farmers around the world who are looking for ways to grow food responsibly and protect the environment.

Continuing Pujari’s Legacy

Kamala Pujari’s passing is a loss for India and the global community. However, her legacy lives on through her work and the countless individuals she inspired. Here’s how we can continue her legacy:

• Supporting Organic Farming: By choosing organic food and supporting local organic farmers, we can contribute to a more sustainable agricultural system.
• Preserving Seed Diversity: Organizations and individuals can work to preserve the precious heritage of indigenous seeds by collecting, storing, and promoting their use.
• Empowering Tribal Communities: Through education and training programs, we can empower tribal communities to utilize sustainable agricultural practices and take ownership of their food security.

Following Kamala Pujari’s example, we can all play a role in promoting sustainable agriculture, preserving biodiversity, and empowering local communities to ensure a healthy future for our planet.