Green Hands, Bright Futures: Speaker Khader and Students Revive Age-Old Paddy Tradition in Someshwar

In a heartwarming display of community spirit and a deep reverence for ancestral traditions, Karnataka Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader recently traded the legislative chambers for verdant paddy fields, joining an enthusiastic group of Pre-University (PU) college students in Someshwar, Mangaluru. Together, they rolled up their sleeves, waded into the muddy soil, and participated in the age-old ritual of planting paddy saplings, sowing not just seeds but also a renewed appreciation for agriculture among the younger generation.

The picturesque setting of Someshwar came alive with laughter and purpose as students from Government PU College, Harekala, and Infant Jesus PU College, Pavoor, embraced the unique opportunity.

Under the guidance of local farmers and with the encouraging presence of the Speaker, these young minds experienced firsthand the intricate process and sheer effort involved in cultivating the staple food of the region. This initiative, held on a field owned by Suresh Bhat, served as a powerful, hands-on lesson far removed from textbooks.

Speaker Khader, visibly enjoying the agrarian task, underscored the profound importance of agriculture to society and the economy.

"There is no greater joy than working on the land and growing our food," he remarked, his words echoing the sentiments of generations past. He passionately urged the youth not to lose touch with their agricultural heritage, emphasizing that farming is not just a profession but a way of life that sustains communities and preserves invaluable ecological balance.

His message resonated deeply: while the world rushes forward with technological advancements, the fundamental need for food remains paramount.

By actively engaging with students in such a vital activity, the Speaker aimed to ignite a spark of interest and respect for farming, encouraging them to view it as a noble and essential pursuit rather than an outdated practice. He highlighted the intrinsic connection between healthy soil, sustainable practices, and the well-being of future generations.

The students, initially perhaps shy, soon found themselves fully immersed in the experience, their faces alight with a mix of curiosity and satisfaction as they carefully placed each sapling into the soil.

This event was more than just a ceremonial planting; it was an educational journey, bridging the gap between urban life and rural realities, and fostering a sense of responsibility towards environmental stewardship and food security. Initiatives like these are crucial in ensuring that the rich tapestry of traditional farming continues to thrive, nurtured by fresh perspectives and youthful energy for years to come.