In Memory of Father, Assam Farmer's 'Rice Library' Rescues More Than 500 Indigenous Rice Varieties: Inspiring Stories
Mahan's journey is a testament to resilience, dedication, and a profound love for preserving India's rich agricultural heritage. Through the Annapurna Rice Library, he safeguards indigenous seeds, cultivates awareness, and imparts knowledge to future generations.
Mahan Chandra Borah hails from the Jorhat district of Assam, where he was born and raised. As the middle child of four siblings in a humble family, he had a strong desire for education. His father, a farmer, played a crucial role in both nurturing Mahan's curiosity and imparting essential knowledge about farming.
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Financial Challenges and Turning Point
Despite his aspiration to pursue higher education and earn a Ph.D., financial constraints posed a significant obstacle. The situation worsened when Mahan's father passed away, placing additional responsibilities on him. Ultimately, he decided to embrace farming as his livelihood but continued to nurture his inquisitive nature.
Seeds of Curiosity and the Birth of Annapurna Rice Library
Mahan's insatiable curiosity led him to explore indigenous rice varieties and seed preservation. He recognized the rapid extinction of these invaluable crops due to a lack of awareness and preservation efforts. In 2008, he began the journey to establish the Annapurna Rice Library.
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The Annapurna Rice Library
Over the course of 15 years, the Annapurna Rice Library has grown into a repository of over 500 indigenous seed varieties, all cultivated organically. It serves as a gene bank for seeds on the brink of extinction, not just in Assam but across the northeastern regions and the entire country. The library houses diverse rice varieties, each with unique attributes, including aromatic, sticky, flood-tolerant, hill rice, and even some with medicinal properties.
The Importance of Indigenous Seeds
Mahan's library not only collects but also educates. It is open for anyone, particularly farmers, to visit and obtain seeds. Alongside the seeds, he shares vital information about cultivation. The goal is to preserve traditional knowledge and pass it on to future generations. Mahan believes in the significance of safeguarding these varieties, recognizing their historical role before commercial farming.
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Challenges and Determination
Managing the library solely has not been without its challenges. Despite financial constraints, Mahan's dedication has kept the library operational. He sustains his family through farming, selling surplus produce in the market, and using the proceeds to support his household and the library.
The Legacy of Mahan Chandra Borah
Mahan's journey is a testament to resilience, dedication, and a profound love for preserving India's rich agricultural heritage. Through the Annapurna Rice Library, he safeguards indigenous seeds, cultivates awareness, and imparts knowledge to future generations. His efforts ensure the legacy of these crops, once cherished by forefathers, continues to thrive and benefit communities. Mahan's story demonstrates the power of a curious mind and a committed heart in preserving the past while shaping the future of agriculture.
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