Nirmala Sitharaman releases 'Village Boy to Global Rice Techie', biography of Dr Ramakrishna Achar

MUMBAI: The journey of a rural entrepreneur from coastal Karnataka who built an enterprise in rice-processing technology with an initial investment of Rs 25,000 has been chronicled in a biography released by Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman here on Monday.

Titled Village Boy to Global Rice Techie, the book documents the life and work of Dr G. Ramakrishna Achar, an entrepreneur from Moodbidri in dakshina kannada district who made a mark in the field of paddy-processing technology through the development of indigenous machinery and engineering solutions.

Sitharaman released the book at a programme organised by The Financial Express, which brought together captains of commerce and industry in Mumbai.

The Union Minister also presented the FE Leadership Awards at the event.

the biography follows Achar's transition from a modest rural upbringing to becoming an entrepreneur whose technological solutions have found acceptance in rice-producing countries across the world.

Achar started his entrepreneurial venture in 1987 with Rs 25,000. His focus on developing machinery to address practical challenges in paddy processing led to innovations in grain drying, moisture management and preservation of rice quality. His indigenous machinery has since reached 27 countries, while his enterprise has generated employment for more than 3,500 people.

One of his significant contributions has been the development of integrated paddy-processing systems incorporating drying technology.

These systems have helped address post-harvest losses and improve the efficiency of rice processing.

The book also examines the challenges involved in building a technology-driven manufacturing enterprise in India, the importance of research and innovation in agriculture and the opportunities available to entrepreneurs in developing indigenous solutions for global markets.

Beyond business, Achar has been involved in skill development and initiatives aimed at creating employment opportunities in rural areas.

His work reflects an approach that combines industrial development with technology transfer and human resource development.

The biography seeks to place his achievements in the larger context of India's indigenous manufacturing capabilities and the potential of rural entrepreneurship to create enterprises with an international footprint. (Eom)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

The Hans India