Paddy Husk Stove by Ashok Thakur (Bihar)

Problem Addressed: Paddy husk is generally discarded as agricultural waste and is abundantly available in paddy growing regions. He observed that paddy husk could not be used effectively as fuel in conventional wood stoves. So, he modified the old stove developed for wood dust so as to use paddy husk as fuel.

Technology: The stove’s design allows the use of paddy husk as fuel. Paddy husk is spread completely between the outer frustum and cylinder. A fire is ignited with the help of some kerosene oil to fuel through the inner frustum. In a few minutes, a good smokeless flame of fire is obtained.

Societal Impact: It is portable, mobile and easy to handle. It will help lower the fuel cost for the users in paddy-growing regions.

Current Status: The innovator has sold multiple units of the stove in his local area and observed the demand for his stove in other regions as well. He is open to getting investments and assistance for marketing his innovation.

(A few methods of pre-treatment are advised for cleaner burning of rice husk as fuel (Anando et. al, 2023), a view endorsed by IRRI.; Eds.)