Patna: Bihar’s 2026–27 budget is set to transform the state’s agricultural landscape, focusing on digital agriculture, promotion of Geographical Indication (GI) products, startup support, and modernisation of markets and value chains. Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, has emerged as a key partner in implementing these priorities, advancing research, innovation, and farmer-oriented initiatives.
Central to the budget is the creation of a Digital Agriculture Directorate, under which BAU has developed AI-driven solutions and digital advisory tools for farmers. The university’s e-Nirog mobile application enables farmers to identify crop diseases and receive instant treatment guidance. In addition, BAU uses FM Green Community Radio, social media, and other digital platforms to provide timely weather updates and agricultural advice, promoting climate-resilient and resource-efficient farming practices.
The budget also emphasises branding and market value enhancement of Bihar’s agricultural and culinary heritage. BAU is facilitating GI registration for over 50 products, including crops, processed foods, and livestock and fisheries items. Notable examples include Litti-Chokha, Thekua, Digha Malda mango, Sona Choor rice, Tilkut, and Khoya Peda, with the university providing scientific certification and quality standardisation to improve branding, export potential, and farmers’ incomes.
To boost agricultural entrepreneurship, BAU has established Sabour Agri Incubators (SABAGRIs), supporting 133 startups to date, with 71 receiving grants totalling Rs 831 lakh. The incubators operate under a three-tier model Acceleration Orientation, Startup Acceleration and Incubation, and Scale-up and Operations providing mentoring, infrastructure, and market linkages. This initiative has helped startups gain recognition at state and national levels, fostering innovation and commercial viability.
Modernising agricultural markets is another key focus of the budget. BAU is assisting farmers with grading, packaging, storage, and post-harvest management, linking them to digital platforms like e-NAM and organised markets. Integrated value chains in cereals, pulses, fruits, vegetables, dairy, and fisheries are being strengthened, supported by research in cold storage and food processing technologies. A major highlight is BAU’s leadership in a Rs 37 crore National Soil Mapping Project, producing high-resolution digital soil maps for all 38 districts of Bihar using AI and geospatial technology.
Capacity building and institutional strengthening are being driven through BAU’s Centre for Advanced Faculty Training (CAFT) and the Agri Informatics and AI Research Centre in collaboration with C-DAC, Patna. These initiatives train faculty and students in ICT, AI, drones, IoT, and digital extension services, positioning BAU as a hub for technology-led agriculture in eastern India.
Dr D.R. Singh, Vice-Chancellor of BAU, said “Our priority is to make advanced agricultural technologies accessible and practical for farmers. The Bihar Budget 2026–27 reinforces this vision through digital advisory systems, GI products, entrepreneurship, and market reforms, helping increase incomes, reduce risks, and strengthen livelihoods.”
BAU experts emphasise that these initiatives digital advisory services, GI promotion, startup incubation, market-oriented production, and value chain development reflect the budget’s practical implementation on the ground. With sustained policy support, BAU is poised to advance sustainable, inclusive, and technology-driven agricultural development across Bihar.
