Jharkhand Agriculture Minister Shilpi Neha Tirkey reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to farmers’ economic development, assuring that immediate relief will be provided to those affected by heavy rains that have damaged crops this year. She was speaking at the Rabi Crop Workshop held at Birsa Agricultural University (BAU) on Tuesday, where she also launched a booklet on Rabi crop management and agricultural guidance.
Minister Tirkey said that although this year was expected to be a good one for farmers, excessive rainfall led to significant crop loss. “The government is assessing the extent of the damage, and assistance will reach the farmers soon,” she said. She emphasized that the state government stands with the farmers, with a strong intent to connect with every cultivator in Jharkhand.
Addressing district agriculture officers and other officials, Minister Tirkey urged them to stay in close contact with farmers and work with sensitivity. She directed officers to coordinate with block agriculture officers, circle officers, and panchayat secretaries and prepare a list of 200 farmers from each district whose lives have been positively transformed through government initiatives.
“The farmers are your stakeholders,” she said. “Reflect on how effectively you are delivering benefits to them. Ensure timely supply of seeds and share important technical information.”
Focus on Expanding KCC Loan Coverage
Highlighting the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme, Tirkey noted that against a target of 25 lakh farmers, only 5 lakh have received loans so far. She urged officials to make KCC loans more accessible, ensuring farmers get the financial support they need for their agricultural requirements.
Agriculture Secretary Abu Bakar Siddique emphasized the importance of creating a crop calendar for Rabi and Kharif seasons to ensure timely implementation of all agricultural activities. He said district officers must identify uncultivated agricultural areas and convert them into productive farmland.
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He also stressed the need for an integrated approach to farming, better utilization of district resources, and promoting soil health cards among farmers. Siddique added that from November 15 (State Foundation Day), the ‘Aapki Sarkar Aapke Dwar’ outreach program will be conducted, providing an opportunity to educate farmers and enhance Rabi crop results.
Rainfall Moisture Favors Rabi Crops: BAU Experts
BAU Vice Chancellor Dr. S.C. Dubey said the workshop would help farmers adapt to the changing conditions. He noted that while excessive rainfall damaged Kharif paddy crops, the residual soil moisture will benefit Rabi cultivation. He advised farmers to remove damaged paddy, focus on Rabi crops, use quality seeds, and adopt seed treatment for better yield.
Livestock Director Zeeshan Qamar echoed the sentiment, saying the moisture would benefit Rabi crops, and workshops like these help farmers gain technical knowledge on advanced seeds, modern farming techniques, soil health, and pest management.
Registrar of Cooperative Societies Shashi Ranjan highlighted the importance of the Crop Insurance Scheme, urging farmers to enroll so they can be compensated for losses caused by weather-related damage.
Horticulture Director Madhavi Mishra said the government is serious about agricultural growth and is committed to implementing all schemes effectively. “Despite heavy rains and crop loss, the government is focusing on increasing both production and farmers’ income,” she added.
Weather Now Favorable for Rabi Crops: Special Secretary
Special Secretary Pradeep Hajari stated that although the state was prepared for droughts, the excessive rainfall this year caused unexpected damage. However, he said the current weather is ideal for Rabi cultivation, and farmers should be guided on ways to maximize yield and protect Rabi crops.
Dr. Arun Kumar (BAU) discussed oilseed cultivation, emphasizing zero-cost farming technologies and the need to increase coverage to 86% across 6.22 lakh hectares. He promoted adoption of varieties like Birsa Baba Mustard-1 for higher productivity.
Dr. Kamlesh Kumar gave insights into advanced chickpea farming, advising timely sowing, selection of high-yielding 120–130 day varieties, and strategic irrigation before and after flowering.
Dr. Surya Prakash spoke about advanced wheat cultivation, noting that sowing can continue from early November to late December, with high-yielding varieties requiring less water, especially in areas unsuitable for mustard or chickpeas.
The workshop concluded with participation from officials of the Agriculture Department, Birsa Agricultural University, and district agriculture officers, all united in their goal of empowering farmers and improving agricultural productivity across Jharkhand.
