Union Minister Stresses Water as Vital for Agricultural Sustainability at Bihar Event
In a significant address at the valedictory session of a three-day regional Kisan Mela, Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Raj Bhushan Choudhary, underscored that water serves as the fundamental "lifeblood" of agriculture. He emphasized that the efficient utilization of water resources is paramount for boosting crop yields and ensuring the long-term sustainability of India's farming sector.
Call for Enhanced Water-Use Efficiency Through Modern Technologies
Speaking as the chief guest at the event organized by Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University (RPCAU) in Pusa, Samastipur district, Choudhary urged agricultural scientists to fully embrace the principle of "Per Drop More Crop." He advocated for a substantial enhancement in water-use efficiency at the farm level by widely adopting micro-irrigation systems, including drip and sprinkler irrigation methods.
The minister pointed out that sustainable growth in agriculture necessitates robust water management strategies, especially in light of climate change impacts such as erratic rainfall patterns and increasing flood-related challenges. He commended RPCAU for its efforts in organizing the Kisan Mela, which effectively showcased the transformative potential of modern technologies in revolutionizing agriculture across Bihar and other regions for the benefit of farmers.
University's Digital Initiatives and Farmer Engagement Highlighted
Choudhary also praised the university's recent initiatives in digital agriculture, aimed at propelling India towards becoming a developed nation. RPCAU Vice-Chancellor P S Pandey noted that the three-day fair provided an invaluable platform for thousands of regional farmers to gain insights into the latest agricultural technologies and innovations.
"We are committed to collaborating with farmers, scientists, and policymakers to realize our vision of a prosperous and sustainable agricultural sector," Pandey stated, reinforcing the university's dedication to agricultural advancement.
Showcasing Cutting-Edge Agricultural Innovations
The Kisan Mela featured over 200 national and international stalls that displayed a wide array of modern agricultural technologies. Highlights included demonstrations of drone technology, hydroponics, and AI-based farming solutions. The event also encompassed technical sessions, interactive farmer-scientist discussions, and practical demonstrations covering various aspects of agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, and fisheries.
Among the major attractions were the digital agriculture stalls, which illustrated the application of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in farming. These exhibits demonstrated practical uses, such as operating micro-irrigation systems via mobile phones and managing nutrient deficiencies in crops through advanced digital tools.
This comprehensive event underscored the critical role of innovation and efficient resource management in shaping the future of Indian agriculture, aligning with national goals for sustainability and development.
