Ganjam student’s solar-powered agri machine earns international recognition

Berhampur: Subhashree Sahu, a Class XI student from Ganjam district, has invented a solar-powered multifunctional agricultural machine, earning the young innovator a spot in the prestigious Japan-Asia Youth Exchange Programme in Science, scheduled for next month.The eco-friendly portable device, which combines threshing, grain separation, straw cutting, winnowing and bag stitching in a single process, can process up to 250 kg per hour. "The machine operates on solar power, making it cost-effective for farmers," said Subhashree, who hails from Kullagada in Sheragada block and studies at a private school in Karimnagar, Telangana.The innovation, developed under the guidance of her father, Lalit Mohan Sahu, a science teacher, has garnered attention for its potential benefits to medium and marginal farmers. The device received acclaim at the National Level Exhibition and Project Competition-2024, organised by the department of science and technology in collaboration with National Innovation Foundation (NIF) in New Delhi. Subhashree was among 31 young scientists awarded at the event, which saw participation from 350 contestants.As an INSPIRE award winner, she will join child scientists and innovators from 14 Asian countries at the Sakura Science Exchange Programme in Japan from June 15 to 21. The fully-funded programme is offered by Japan Science and Technology Agency (JSTA) in collaboration with India.Subhashree's impressive track record includes the Young Achiever Award-2023, CBSE National Science Fair award, and participation in various national-level competitions. Karimnagar collector Pamela Satapathy recently felicitated Subhashree for her achievements.Local leaders, including Sheragada panchayat samiti chairman Krushna Chandra Pradhan, have congratulated Subhashree for bringing laurels to Ganjam district and Sheragada block.

• Published On May 18, 2025 at 11:30 AM IST