Sabour: The National Farmers’ Conference cum Farmers’ Fair commenced at Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, with Bihar Governor and Chancellor Arif Mohammad Khan inaugurating the event. The university’s vice-chancellor, Dr D R Singh, welcomed the guests, including Bhagalpur MP Ajay Mandal, Gopalpur MLA Narendra Kumar Neeraj, NABARD Chief General Manager Vinay Kumar Sinha, C-DAC Director Aditya Kumar Sinha, and Postal General Manager of the Purbi region Manoj Kumar. The guests were felicitated with shawls and plants before the programme began with the national anthem and the ceremonial lighting of lamps.
Governor Stresses Agricultural Potential
In his inaugural address, Khan highlighted Bhagalpur’s rich historical legacy, referencing Danveer Karna and the ancient learning centre Vikramshila. He described the farmers’ fair as a vital tool for public education and praised the exhibits showcasing agricultural advancements. He expressed confidence in Bihar’s immense agricultural potential, citing its fertile land and hardworking farmers. He particularly encouraged farmers to explore commercial cultivation of flowers such as orchids, carnations, lilies, and anthuriums, alongside exotic fruits like avocados, strawberries, blueberries, and dragon fruit.
Over 1,100 exhibits were displayed across different categories, including 425 in vegetable farming, 385 in floriculture and medicinal plants, and 100 in fruit cultivation.
GI-Tagged Postage Stamps Unveiled
A major highlight of the event was the launch of India’s first postage stamps featuring GI-tagged products. The governor released stamps for Bihar’s Katarni rice, Zardalu mango, Magahi paan, Mithila makhana, and Shahi litchi. Officials said the initiative would promote Bihar’s agricultural heritage nationwide and internationally.
Publications and Agricultural Products Released
Several farmer-friendly books and publications were released, including Krishi Udyamita Se Samriddh Kisaan, authored by senior university scientists, and Krishi Seva Pradipta: A Practical Handbook. The Directorate of Extension Education also launched books on integrated nutrient management and compost production. Additionally, the university introduced eco-friendly gulaal packaging made from temple flowers, aligning with the vice-chancellor’s initiative of repurposing floral waste.
Agri-Glams and Digital Learning for Farmers
The fair also saw the launch of Agri-Glams, a digital platform developed in collaboration with C-DAC to provide agricultural knowledge through quizzes and games. The initiative aims to educate farmers and agriculture students through interactive learning tools.
Farmers and Scientists Honoured
Several individuals were recognised for their contributions to agriculture. Entrepreneur Priya Soni, seed propagator Saroj Devi, and mushroom innovator Poonam Kumari were among those honoured. Climate-resilient farming techniques and crop diversification efforts were also acknowledged, with awards given to farmers implementing sustainable practices such as Happy Seeder technology for crop residue management.
Scientists were also recognised, including Dr Pankaj Kumar Ray of Krishi Vigyan Kendra Saharsa and Dr Ziaul Hoda of Krishi Vigyan Kendra Bhagalpur for their role in technology dissemination. Dr Tarak Nath Goswami was honoured for establishing an agricultural museum, while Dr Sajida Bano received recognition for researching medicinal properties in makhana.
Cultural Programme and Garden Exhibition
The evening featured a cultural programme by university students, including folk dances and Holi celebrations. More than 12,000 farmers attended the event, exploring 150 exhibition stalls. A garden exhibition showcasing flower arrangements, bonsai, cacti, and processed agricultural products was a major attraction.
The fair concluded with a vote of thanks from Seed Director Dr Feza Ahmed, with the event being anchored by university community radio announcer Annu.
