Sabour: Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, has secured its first patent of 2025 for an innovative Dragon Fruit Pole Digger, a device designed to improve efficiency in dragon fruit cultivation.
Dragon fruit, a cactus species, requires sturdy poles for support to ensure long-term productivity. Cement poles are commonly used due to their resistance to termites. The newly patented pole digger, developed by a team of scientists including Dr. Shamim, Dr. Mahesh, Dr. Wasim, Dr. Satyanarayana, Dr. Fozia, Dr. Sanoj Kumar, Dr. Anil Kumar Singh, and Dr. D.R. Singh, aims to simplify and accelerate the installation process for these poles.
The Vice-Chancellor of BAU, Dr. D.R. Singh, highlighted the significance of this innovation, stating:
“The Dragon Fruit Pole Digger will reduce labour costs, increase efficiency, and enhance plant productivity. The government’s 40% subsidy scheme will further support this initiative.”
Boosting Bihar’s Agricultural Economy
The Bihar government has launched an ambitious scheme to promote large-scale dragon fruit cultivation across 21 districts, offering farmers a 40% subsidy. The newly patented equipment is expected to significantly contribute to this initiative by making cultivation more efficient and cost-effective.
To ensure accessibility, BAU has outlined a five-pronged strategy for rolling out the Dragon Fruit Pole Digger:
1. Startup and Incubation Support – The university’s SABAGRI Startup Cell will help develop the device into a commercial product, encouraging local entrepreneurs.
2. Industry Partnerships – Collaboration with agricultural equipment manufacturers and MSMEs will enable large-scale production.
3. Government Subsidies – The device will be included in Bihar’s Dragon Fruit Scheme, ensuring farmers can purchase it at subsidized rates.
4. On-Ground Demonstrations – Farmers will be trained through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and agricultural fairs.
5. Patent-Based Royalty Model – The university may license the innovation to private manufacturers, generating patent royalties while expanding access.
A Step Forward for Agricultural Innovation
BAU’s latest achievement is expected to enhance productivity, reduce manual labour, and bolster the state’s agricultural economy. The patent reflects the university’s growing focus on technological advancements to support Bihar’s farmers, making dragon fruit cultivation more efficient, sustainable, and profitable.
