Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Saturday highlighted the critical role of agriculture in the state’s economy, emphasizing the need for modernization in farming techniques.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the three-day “AgroTech Farmers’ Fair 2025” at the Birsa Agricultural University (BAU), Ranchi, CM Soren stated that agriculture is a vital sector for a state where nearly 80 percent of the population resides in rural areas and depends on farming for livelihood.
The Role of Birsa Agricultural University in Agricultural Advancement
CM Soren acknowledged the contributions of Birsa Agricultural University, which has been serving farmers for over 45 years.
He emphasized that the institution plays a crucial role in training students in agricultural sciences, enabling them to support farmers across the country and beyond.
The university offers inclusive education in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, and research, significantly contributing to the development of modern farming techniques.
Need for Modern Farming Techniques
Jharkhand’s unique topography presents challenges for traditional farming. CM Soren stressed that while irrigation facilities vary across states, Jharkhand must embrace modern agricultural technologies to enhance productivity.
He assured that both the state government and the BAU will collaborate to provide farmers with better guidance and support.
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He also noted that unpredictable weather conditions often discourage farmers, but technological advancements can help mitigate such challenges.
Pipeline Irrigation to Enhance Farmland Productivity
To address irrigation challenges, the Jharkhand government is implementing various schemes to ensure water reaches farmlands through pipelines. CM Soren, coming from an agricultural background himself, recalled how sugarcane farming was once prevalent in villages but has significantly declined over the years.
He stressed the importance of reclaiming cultivable land and increasing its utilization for farming. The government is advancing lift irrigation projects to improve water supply for agricultural activities.
Collaboration Between BAU and the State Government
For sustainable agricultural growth, CM Soren emphasized the need for a coordinated effort between Birsa Agricultural University and the state government.
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A comprehensive strategy will be developed to boost agricultural output and ensure market accessibility for farmers. The government is committed to drafting policies that will maximize the benefits farmers receive from BAU’s research and initiatives.
Well Irrigation Scheme to Benefit Farmers
The state government is focusing on improving irrigation infrastructure by distributing seeds and fertilizers on time and constructing wells for sustainable water sources.
CM Soren announced plans to establish “Farmer Schools” in every district, where farmers will receive training in modern farming techniques, animal husbandry, and aquaculture. Additionally, the government aims to build over 100,000 wells to support traditional irrigation methods, reducing dependence on borewells, which can sometimes fail.
Empowering Women Through Agriculture
CM Soren highlighted the government’s initiatives to empower women through the Mukhyamantri Maiya Samman Yojana, which provides Rs 2,500 per month to women, helping them become financially independent. He encouraged women farmers to explore opportunities in dairy farming, poultry, pig farming, floriculture, and other agricultural ventures.
Jharkhand is the first state in India to actively promote women’s economic self-reliance through structured agricultural initiatives. The government is also supporting small-scale domestic processing units to help farmers establish their businesses and become agricultural entrepreneurs.
Launch of ‘Birsa Agricultural Guide 2025’
During the event, CM Soren, along with Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Cooperation Minister Shilpi Neha Tirkey, and other dignitaries, unveiled the ‘Birsa Agricultural Guide 2025.’
The Chief Minister also visited various stalls at the AgroTech Farmers’ Fair to review the latest agricultural advancements. Additionally, he laid the foundation stone for a training hall and a herbal medicine exhibition gallery under the National Agricultural Development Scheme at the BAU campus.
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The event witnessed the presence of notable dignitaries, including Agriculture Minister Shilpi Neha Tirkey, BAU Vice-Chancellor Dr. Sunil Chandra Dubey, CM’s Additional Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Director of the Indian Agricultural Biotechnology Institute, Ranchi, Dr. Sujay Rakshit, and BAU’s Director of Extension Education Dr. Jagarnath Oraon, among other senior officials.
With initiatives like pipeline irrigation, modern farming education, and well-construction schemes, the Jharkhand government aims to transform the agricultural landscape of the state, ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity for its farmers.
