Megha Das 
In the heartlands of Odisha, amidst the nurturing embrace of Mayurbhanj District, a quiet and studious individual who dreamt of a future filled with exploration and innovation. That individual was none other than Mr. Basant Kumar Rout, whose journey from the tranquil sub-division of Karanjia to the prestigious position of Chief Engineer in Minor Irrigation is a testament to his unwavering dedication and the transformative power of engineering. Let us know more about him in this interview.
Q1. How was your childhood?
Ans. I was born and brought up in Karanjia sub-division of Mayurbhanj District in Odisha. During my childhood, I was very calm, studious and was very curious of exploring the activities around me.
Q2. Had you always wanted to be a professional Engineer since your early studies?
Ans. From my early studies I was very keen on exploring Engineering activities and always aspire to become an Engineer in future. My parents and teachers also encouraged me vastly for pursuing this career.
Q3. As the Chief Engineer, Minor Irrigation, how has been you journey & work prioritization?
Ans. As on date, Minor Irrigation Organization is providing irrigation to about 5,15,671 ha of ayacut through 3799 nos. of MIPs and has created irrigation capacity for about 1,58,433 ha of ayacut through 14680 Nos. of Check Dams. The jurisdiction of the Chief Engineer, Minor Irrigation being spread over the entire state of Odisha, the job is truly challenging. My prioritization is early completion of ongoing projects and to keep the existing projects in best possible condition so that the desired output is achieved.
Q4. Hon’ble Chief Minister Mr. Naveen Patnaik has always valued Farmers income doubling by giving them almost possible irrigation facilities, whats your take on this?
Ans. The Minor Irrigation Projects and Check Dams have a very low gestation period and so the desired output is delivered within a short span. Many Minor Irrigation projects remain incomplete due to involvement of private land in the canal system. Expeditious efforts are taken to complete the distribution system of these projects through Under Ground Pipe Line (UGPL) system so as to effect irrigation to the proposed command at the earliest.
Q5. Your piece of advices for young aspiring Engineers?
Ans. Majority of Indian population being dependent on agriculture activity, agriculture place a vital part in the economic growth of India. Irrigation is a key requirement for the agriculture. I would always encourage aspiring Engineers to be an Irrigation Engineer and involve themselves in nation building.
In the story of Mr. Basant Kumar Rout, we find not just an accomplished engineer but a visionary who has dedicated his life to the service of others. His journey from a curious child in Karanjia to the Chief Engineer in Minor Irrigation is a story of dreams realized through hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of society. In his footsteps, a new generation of engineers can find inspiration to take up the mantle of irrigation engineering and contribute to the prosperity of the nation.
