Meet Harshita Priyadarshini Mohanty: Odisha’s 12-Year-Old Seed Guardian Saving Rare Millets and Paddy Varieties

Sowing Seeds of Change: A 12-Year-Old's Journey in Environmental Conservation

In the lush, green landscapes of Odisha, a remarkable young girl is making significant strides in environmental conservation. Harshita Priyadarshini Mohanty, a seventh-grader at a private school in Koraput, is dedicated to preserving the agricultural heritage of her region by focusing on indigenous seed collection and conservation.

Inspired by Padma Shri awardee Kamala Pujari, renowned for promoting organic farming, Harshita embarked on her journey of seed preservation three years ago. Her initiative quickly gained recognition, leading to an invitation to participate in the Global Symposium on Farmers’ Rights in 2023, inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu.

Harshita’s passion for preserving rare millet and paddy varieties has led her to establish the 'Harshita Priyadarshini Science Club' and set up a food grain and seed bank at her home. This seed bank boasts over 60 rare millet varieties, with a collection that has grown to include more than 150 rare paddy varieties, 53 varieties of finger millets, and seven varieties of pearl millets. Through her efforts, Harshita aims to help farmers grow these rare varieties in the future, contributing to biodiversity and sustainable agriculture.

"Many paddy and millet varieties are becoming rare now, and through my collection, I wish to help farmers grow them in the future," says Harshita, who aspires to become an agronomist.

Millets, often overlooked in modern diets, are resilient crops that thrive in diverse climates with minimal resources. Their nutritional profile rivals that of celebrated superfoods, yet they face the threat of extinction due to modern agricultural practices that favor monoculture and hybrid varieties. Harshita’s work is a beacon of hope in the fight to preserve these valuable crops.

Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. Harshita’s participation in the Global Symposium on Farmers’ Rights, where she addressed delegates from 125 countries, showcased her collection and highlighted the importance of organic farming. Her eloquence and knowledge captivated the audience, earning admiration from government officials and dignitaries.

Recognizing the need to spread her knowledge and resources, Harshita's 'Harshita Priyadarshini Science Club' serves as a platform for empowering her peers and local farmers. Her altruistic efforts demonstrate the profound impact one individual can have on fostering change.

Harshita Priyadarshini Mohanty’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of individual dedication on environmental conservation. Her initiative not only preserves rare seeds but also inspires hope for a sustainable future, ensuring that the rich agricultural heritage of her community is safeguarded for generations to come.

Reference:

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