Birsa Agricultural University (BAU) Vice Chancellor Dr Parvinder Kaushal has said that the University was working tirelessly to help farmers of the State in adapting to the best available and upcoming technological advancements in agriculture.
He said during divulging details about Agrotech Kisan Mela to be organised in BAU campus from Monday that the University was also working to utilize all its resources including wide network of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and community radio, revival processes for which are on.
“We have been running a number of programmes independently, and in collaboration with Government also, to help farmers grow their source of income. This three-day Kisan Mela will prove to be a platform of knowledge sharing, showcasing technology enhancement in agriculture and learning for farmers of the State,” said the VC.
With the objective of apprising farmers and agro entrepreneurs of the State with latest technologies of modern way of farming, animal husbandry, forestry and agro-based small and cottage industries, BAU is Agrotech Kisan Mela in its Kanke Road campus. The Mela which will have over 140 stalls by university departments, farmers and private agropreneurs will also have a dedicated Pandal for central theme.
Scheduled to be inaugurated by Governor and ex-officio Chancellor Droupadi Murmu on Monday, the Mela has been themed on Technology and Strategy for Enhancing Farm Income in Jharkhand, and is expected to be participated by over 15,000 farmers of different segment and over 50,000 visitors from across the State comprising students, agro enthusiasts and entrepreneurs and other stakeholders during three days.
Technologies, products and services related to agriculture, animal husbandry and veterinary, fisheries, forestry, horticulture including fruits, vegetables, flowers, spices, medical and aromatic plants, soil and water management, biotechnology and tissue culture will be displayed at the stalls in the Mela. Farm implements designed and developed to save farmers’ time, energy and money and increase their efficiency will also be on display.
The event is also aimed at disseminating the technologies of lac and tusser cultivation, bee keeping, mushroom production and related areas for increasing production, productivity and income of farmer community. Kaushal said that horticulture show, Kisan Gosthi and cultural programmes will be organised on the opening day of Mela.
“A Mahila Krishak Gosthi themed on Agricultural Development in Jharkhand through Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) will be key programme on second day when a bird and animal exhibition will also be organised to award best bird-keeping and animal husbandry practices,” said he.
Apart from seminars and Gosthis, the Mela will also have, like all previous years, a field visit everyday to technology parks and experimental plots. “Quality seeds, planting material, bio-fertilisers and farm literature will be available for sale in the Mela, where Agriculture Minister Randhir Singh will be present on the third and last day on March 22 to listen to the farmers and encourage them,” said Kaushal.