Mukti Farmer Receives “Krishi Ratna Award 2015”

Agriculture is the most widespread livelihood in West Bengal, and accounts for a significant percentage of India’s food production. Considering this, the West Bengal government has introduced the “Krishi Ratna” award for the best farmer in each block of the state. This annual award is usually given on 14th March, which is designated as “Krishi Dibas” by the state government. The award comprises a cash prize of INR 10,000 along with a certificate of accreditation signed by the chief minister.

Mr. Pintu Purkait, a farmer from Mukti, has been honored with the “Krishi Ratna” for Mathurapur Block II in Raidighi, 24 PGS(S). He was presented with the award by the Agricultural Development Officer (ADO) in the presence of a large audience of farmers and local dignitaries. The selection was based on Mr. Purkait’s role as an ideal farmer over the past three years. During this time, he was evaluated on his performance in an annual agricultural quiz, his own home garden, as well as the help and guidance provided to fellow farmers. Thus, the award is recognition of a combination of theoretical knowledge, practical know-how, and impact on the community.

At the ceremony, Mr. Purkait shared that he was born to a farming family, and that he was unable to continue his studies after his secondary board examinations due to his parents’ financial circumstances. However, he possessed keen interest in agriculture since childhood, and this motivated him to select farming as his profession. He underwent a twenty-week training course from the Agricultural Development Office, which helped him to gain hands-on experience, and inspired him to become a qualified, technically advanced farmer. Later, in 2011, he joined Mukti, and came into contact with more than three hundred farmers. Since then, he has been working to promote sustainable agriculture and organic farming, and has been wholeheartedly helping his fellow farmers with his expertise. Thus, he was an immense benefit to Mukti in the Sustainable Agricultural Movement (SAM) and Organic Farming projects.

Mr. Purkait said he feels very positive and motivated by the award. He has decided to buy agricultural books with a portion of his prize money. He dedicated his honor to Mukti, his colleagues, and other well-wishers. He mentioned that Mukti’s technical training was instrumental in making the award possible for him. He said “I am grateful to Mr. Sankar Halder, Mukti President; Mr. Somnath Mukherji, AID-Boston volunteer, and the Mathurapur block II ADO.” He added, “This recognition has made me more responsible for executing more productive work in future.” He is hopeful of spreading his technical know-how among the rural farmers for the betterment of society.