Kamala Pujari, Padma Shri Awardee And Renowned Organic Farmer Passes Away At 74

Cuttack, Odisha- Kamala Pujari, a celebrated organic farmer and Padma Shri awardee, passed away on Saturday morning after a prolonged battle with kidney-related ailments.

She was 74 years old. Pujari has two sons and two daughters.

Photo Credit: X/ANI

Kamala Pujari Passes Away At 74

Pujari had been admitted to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack two days prior, following a deterioration in her condition. Initially, she was transferred from Jeypore District Headquarters Hospital due to the severity of her illness. Despite being under the care of a four-member medical team, Pujari's health declined rapidly, as reported by India Today.

The demise of Kamala Pujari has prompted expressions of condolence from high-profile leaders. President Droupadi Murmu mourned her loss, highlighting Pujari's significant contributions to organic farming and environmental conservation. In a social media post, President Murmu described Pujari as an "eminent social worker and agriculturist" whose efforts in preserving rare and endangered rice seeds and promoting organic farming would be long remembered.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also offered his condolences on X (formerly Twitter), noting Pujari's monumental impact on agriculture. He praised her work in advancing organic practices, safeguarding indigenous seeds, and empowering tribal communities. Modi emphasized that Pujari's contributions to sustainability and biodiversity would be cherished for years to come.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep sorrow over Pujari's death. He announced that her funeral would be conducted with full state honours. Majhi also spoke personally with Pujari's son, Tankadhar Pujari, to offer his sympathies.

Naveen Patnaik, Leader of the Opposition in the Odisha Assembly and former Chief Minister, also paid tribute to Pujari, acknowledging her lasting impact on agriculture in the region, as reported by PTI.

Kamala Pujari was born in Patraput village, Baipariguda block, Koraput district. Known for her dedication to organic farming, she was instrumental in cultivating over 100 varieties of rice. Her efforts earned her recognition from several prestigious organizations, including the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation, as per media reports.

In 2004, she received the Best Farmer Award from the Odisha government, and in 2002, she was honoured with the Equator Initiative Award in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Pujari was awarded the Padma Shri in 2019 by then-President Ramnath Kovind for her outstanding contributions to agriculture. She also served on the state planning board in 2018. Her body will be returned to her native village for a final farewell.