Mangaluru Agri-Entrepreneur Establishes Raithapitha Award to Honor Farmers
In a significant move to bolster respect and encouragement for agricultural work across India, Ramakrishna Achar, a prominent agri-entrepreneur from Dakshina Kannada and the head of the SKF Elixir group, has founded the Raithapitha Award. This prestigious accolade comes with a substantial prize amount of Rs 1 lakh, aimed at recognizing and rewarding the dedication of farmers who contribute to the nation's agricultural heritage.
Inaugural Award Honors Preservation of Rare Paddy Varieties
The inaugural recipient of the Raithapitha Award is B K Deva Rao from Mittabagilu in Belthangady taluk. At 80 years old, Deva Rao has been selected for his remarkable efforts in preserving more than 200 rare varieties of paddy. This achievement is particularly noteworthy given the declining trend of paddy cultivation in many parts of Dakshina Kannada, where traditional farming practices are often overshadowed by modern agricultural methods.
Despite these challenges, Deva Rao has steadfastly continued to protect and cultivate these rare paddy varieties, ensuring their survival for future generations. Ramakrishna Achar praised Deva Rao, stating, "Rao not only saved rare varieties that could have been lost to the passage of time for the sake of the next generation, but also served as a role model for others in agriculture." This recognition highlights the critical importance of conserving agricultural biodiversity and inspiring younger farmers to embrace sustainable practices.
Award Ceremony and Associated Programs
The Raithapitha Award will be formally presented on February 20 at Gaudhama Farm in Muniyal, Karkala taluk. The ceremony is set to be a notable event, with distinguished attendees including Sri Adrushya Kadasiddheshwar Swami of Siddhagiri Mutt in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, and Sri Nijalingeshwar Swami of Nidasesi Duradundeshwar Siddhasamsthana Mutt in Belagavi. Their presence underscores the cultural and spiritual significance of agriculture in the region.
In addition to the award presentation, the event will feature two key programs designed to promote agricultural awareness and community engagement:
- Krishi Mandala Programme: This initiative aims to create widespread agricultural awareness, educating farmers and the public about innovative farming techniques, conservation efforts, and the economic benefits of sustainable agriculture.
- Ekapavitra Shrimannagamandala Programme: Held at Gaudhama, this program focuses on fostering community spirit and spiritual connections related to farming, emphasizing the holistic role of agriculture in society.
Through the Raithapitha Award and these associated events, Ramakrishna Achar and the SKF Elixir group are championing a renewed appreciation for farmers and their vital contributions. This effort not only honors individual achievements like those of B K Deva Rao but also aims to inspire a broader movement towards agricultural resilience and respect in India.
