September 4th 2024.
Odisha has been home to individuals who have gone above and beyond, leaving a lasting impact beyond their local boundaries. Their contributions have spanned various fields such as plant physiology, economics, industrial growth, and food security. These trailblazers, including Pranakrushna Parija, Bansidhar Panda, Ritesh Agarwal, Prabhat Patnaik, and Swati Nayak, have not only brought recognition to Odisha but have also played a crucial role in driving the nation's progress. In this feature, we dive into the inspiring journeys of these exceptional figures, shedding light on their accomplishments, the obstacles they faced, and the enduring influence they continue to have on society.
Bansidhar Panda was a visionary who pursued higher education at Banaras Hindu University before embarking on advanced studies at the University of Michigan and Harvard University in the United States. During a time when industries in Odisha were struggling, he received encouragement from Biju Patnaik to return to his homeland and establish industries there. Following this advice, Panda founded Indian Metals and Ferro Alloys, which has become one of India's largest ferroalloy companies. In 1961, he set up the first plant in Therubali, Koraput district, providing employment opportunities to many people. Aside from his industrial success, Panda was known for his philanthropic efforts, including establishing the 'Sarala Puraskar' for literature and the 'Ekalabya Puraskar' for sports. He passed away on May 22, 2018, at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.
Pranakrushna Parija, born on April 1, 1891, in Ichhapur, Jagatsinghpur district, was a renowned botanist who gained significant recognition for his research on plant physiology. He served as the Principal of Ravenshaw College, Vice-Chancellor of Utkal University, and Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Banaras Hindu University. In his honour, the Parija Library at Utkal University was named after him. Parija was also elected as a member of the first Odisha Legislative Assembly. He passed away on June 2, 1978, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in the field of botany.
Ritesh Agarwal, born in 1993 in Bissam Cuttack, Rayagada district, grew up in Titilagarh, Bolangir. From a young age, he aspired to become a businessman, coming from a Marwari family with a small shop. In 2011, he moved to Delhi for college and later, in May 2013, founded OYO Rooms, an online hotel booking website. His company reached a valuation of $1 billion in 2018, making Agarwal a well-known name in the business world. He was also featured in Forbes' '30 under 30' list for Asia. In March 2023, he tied the knot with Geetansha Sood in a grand ceremony, marking a new chapter in his life.
Prabhat Patnaik, born on September 19, 1945, in Jatni, Odisha, is a prominent Marxist economist and political commentator. His father, Prananath Patnaik, was a notable Communist leader and former MLA. Patnaik pursued higher education at Oxford University and went on to teach at Jawaharlal Nehru University's Centre for Economic Studies and Planning. He retired in 2010 and has since authored several influential books on economics and inflation. Patnaik also served as the vice-chairman of the Kerala State Planning Board from 2006 to 2011 and is currently the editor of a journal called Social Scientist.
Swati Nayak, born on July 19, 1984, in Sagua, Bhubaneswar, is an Odia scientist who specializes in food security and nutrition. Her significant contributions in combating hunger and promoting food safety have earned her the prestigious Norman Borlaug Award. Among her notable achievements is the introduction of the drought-resistant rice variety 'Sahabhagi Dhan' in Mayurbhanj district. Nayak currently works as the South Asia Lead for Seed System and Product Management at the International Rice Research Institute in New Delhi, using her expertise to make a positive impact on society.
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