Bihar Agriculture Pavilion Highlights Farming Innovations at Bihar Day Celebrations

By A Correspondent
Patna: Bihar Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister, Vijay Kumar Sinha, inaugurated the Agriculture Pavilion at a state function held at Gandhi Maidan, Patna, to mark Bihar Day. The event was presided over by Sanjay Kumar Agrawal, Secretary of the Agriculture Department. The pavilion is part of the Bihar Day celebrations, which are being held from March 22 to March 26, 2025, under the theme “Unnat Bihar Vikasit Bihar” (Developed Bihar, Advanced Bihar).

Showcasing Bihar Agricultural Heritage

The Agriculture Pavilion is highlighting Bihar’s unique agricultural products, including traditional and processed items. Visitors can explore and purchase GI-tagged products like Bhagalpuri Katarni rice, Marcha chura, Sonachura rice, Jata Sattu, and Sonamoti wheat from the Shahabad region. These products reflect the state’s rich agricultural heritage and are a major attraction for attendees.

Empowering Farmers with Knowledge and Technology

The pavilion is not just a display of products but also a hub of knowledge and innovation. Farmers and the general public can access technical information about various crops through Krishi Gyan Vahan (Agricultural Knowledge Vehicle). Additionally, a mobile soil testing laboratory is available to help farmers understand soil health and improve crop productivity.

Promoting Modern Agricultural Practices

The Agriculture Department has set up a 30,000-square-foot pavilion to educate farmers about the latest agricultural technologies. The exhibition also highlights the success of Bihar’s Agriculture Road Map, which has significantly boosted the production and productivity of food grains and horticultural crops. A symbolic exhibition of all four Agriculture Road Maps is also on display.

Climate-Friendly Farming Initiatives

Several agricultural institutes in Bihar, including the Borlaug Institute for South Asia, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, and Bihar Agricultural University, are actively promoting climate-friendly farming practices. These include:

• Timely sowing of crops
• Selection of climate-resilient crop cycles
• Proper management of water, nutrients, and weeds
• Use of advanced equipment like Happy Seeder, Super Seeder, and Straw Baler for crop residue management
• Subsidies and Micro-Irrigation Schemes

The Directorate of Horticulture is implementing a micro-irrigation scheme, offering farmers up to 90% subsidies. This initiative aims to reduce production costs while increasing farmers’ income. Live demonstrations of rooftop gardening, makhana cultivation, mushroom farming, and medicinal plant cultivation are also being conducted to inspire farmers to diversify their crops.

Water Conservation and Dry Gardening

The Directorate of Land Conservation is showcasing the importance of water harvesting structures and dry gardening under the Watershed Development Program. These practices are crucial for sustainable farming in Bihar’s diverse climatic conditions.

Innovative Agricultural Tools on Display

The Plant Protection Division is demonstrating the use of agricultural drones and sprayer equipment, highlighting how technology can revolutionise farming. The exhibition also promotes various government schemes through Krishi Gyan Vahan, ensuring farmers are well-informed about available resources.

Showcasing High-Quality Planting Materials

The pavilion features high-quality vegetable and fruit planting materials produced by the Centers of Excellence in Chandi (Nalanda) and Desari (Vaishali). Processed agricultural products like mushrooms and honey are also on display and available for purchase.

A Platform for Farmers and the Public

Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha expressed his hope that the exhibition would greatly benefit farmers and the general public. He emphasised that the Agriculture Pavilion is a platform to celebrate Bihar’s agricultural achievements while promoting modern techniques and sustainable practices.