Bihar Agricultural University to Launch Next-Gen Agricultural Extension Model in 2025
Patna: Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, has announced an ambitious action plan for 2025 aimed at revolutionising agricultural extension services in the state. Under the leadership of Vice-Chancellor Dr D. R. Singh, the university’s initiatives will focus on rapid dissemination of agricultural information, integration of cutting-edge technologies, and the holistic development of farmers, youth, and agri-entrepreneurs.
Central to the plan is the launch of the Agri Digital Clinic and Agri Business Center, set to begin operations on January 14, 2025. This will include online skill-development programmes, with a goal to train 3,000 young people through 100 training sessions. Additionally, BAU will launch the e-BAU commerce portal, a platform to help farmers market their produce digitally.
Workshops, Exhibitions, and Natural Farming
A workshop on digital agriculture will be held on 6-7 January 2025, focusing on technological innovations. Later, from February 22-24 , the university will organise the Bihar Kisan Mela-cum-Exhibition under the theme “Prosperous Farmers through Agricultural Entrepreneurship.” This event will showcase modern techniques, organic farming methods, and entrepreneurship opportunities. To promote natural farming, BAU plans to establish Bio-Input Resource Centres at various Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs). Advanced units like an aeroponics facility for potato seed production and a millet processing unit will also be set up to encourage sustainable and climate-friendly practices.
Strengthening Knowledge Dissemination
To make agricultural knowledge more accessible, BAU will publish books and magazines in simple language and set up Kisan Pustakalayas (Farmers’ Libraries) at the district level. A 21-day CAFT training programme on Agriculture 5.0 will be held from January 28 to February 17, 2025, focusing on AI and ICT applications for next-gen farming. This programme will draw scientists from agricultural universities across India. In collaboration with leading institutions like IIMR Hyderabad and IIHR Bengaluru, the university will provide advanced training to over 100 scientists. The Krishi Gyan Vahan initiative will continue to facilitate direct interaction between university scientists and farmers through virtual platforms.
Expansion of Community Radio and Media Initiatives
Building on its success with community radio stations in Barh (Patna), Manpur (Gaya), and Sabour, BAU will launch a new station in Katihar by February 2025. A mobile app for FM Green, the university’s digital broadcasting service, will allow farmers to engage in live programmes and provide feedback in their own voices. A new media centre at Krishi Bhawan, Patna, will produce technical films and provide digital agricultural advisories under the Bihar Agricultural Weather Service.
Vice-Chancellor Speaks
Dr D. R. Singh expressed his commitment to equipping Bihar’s farmers with innovative tools and scientific insights, stating that the university’s advanced dissemination model will strengthen self-reliance in the agricultural sector. “In the coming year, BAU will work in an even more advanced and hi-tech form for agricultural extension, making farmers financially strong,” he said.
