In the latest episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed two Odia individuals for their remarkable contributions to women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship.
The Fish Queen of Hirakud
Sujata Bhuyan of Sambalpur has turned the Hirakud reservoir into a hub of success. Utilizing scientific 'Cage Culture' technology, she manages three cages with an investment of ₹54 lakh, producing up to 30 tons of fish per cage annually.
Beyond her personal profit of ₹5–6 lakh, she has generated employment for 15 people, exporting produce to neighboring states. Sujata credited her success to the Fisheries Department’s training and government loans, expressing deep gratitude for the Prime Minister's recognition.
A Voice for Progress
From Kendrapara, Om Prakash Rath, a first-year college student, earned the PM's praise for his intellectual prowess. Out of 1.2 million participants in the 'My Bharat Budget Quest', Om’s essay on "Women-led Development" stood out for its high-quality vision.
The son of a teacher and an Anganwadi worker, Om has balanced academic excellence with social responsibility, proving that Odisha's youth are ready to lead national dialogues.