Unique Contribution to Environment – Pushpa Sahu Honoured for Organic Terrace Fruit Farming

RAIPUR: Known across the city as “Hariyali Didi”, Mrs. Pushpa Sahu was honoured at a ceremony held in Vrindavan Hall for her outstanding contribution in the field of environmental conservation. The award was presented to her by Brijmohan Agrawal, Member of Parliament from Raipur Lok Sabha. The event was also graced by Raipur Mayor Mrs. Meenal Choubey, along with several other dignitaries, who praised Mrs. Sahu’s unique initiative.

Mrs. Pushpa Sahu began organic fruit farming on the terrace of her home in 2013. Remarkably, the very first apple grown in Chhattisgarh came from her rooftop garden, which created quite a stir across the state. Today, her terrace flourishes with 16 to 17 varieties of seasonal and exotic fruits. These include mango, guava, custard apple, apple, sapota, sweet lime, kinnow, Chinese orange, dragon fruit, star fruit, banana, papaya, and Indian gooseberry (amla). In addition, she has also been successfully cultivating leafy vegetables, medicinal plants, spices, and flowers.

Her unique initiative has earned recognition across the country. In 2017, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Pusa, New Delhi, conferred upon her the Innovative Farmer Award. Apart from this, she has received more than 20 awards and honours from various national and state-level institutions.

Mrs. Sahu not only practices farming but also shares her experiences and research work widely. She has presented research papers related to organic terrace fruit farming at national and international conferences. Her work has been observed and appreciated by ministers from both the state and central governments, agricultural scientists from various universities, as well as leading figures from religious and social organisations.

According to Mrs. Sahu, even with limited space, strong willpower and innovation can meet household needs while also contributing significantly to environmental balance.

Her journey has proved that city rooftops can be transformed into lush green gardens and thriving fruit orchards. This is why Hariyali Didi Pushpa Sahu today stands as a true role model and source of inspiration for the entire state.