Sabour: The 22nd meeting of the Scientific Advisory Committee of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, placed the spotlight on crop diversification, mixed farming and farmer-focused innovation.
The session began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the Vice Chancellor and guests. Senior scientist and centre head Anita Kumari presented the annual progress report and detailed the compliance of previous decisions.
In his address, the Vice Chancellor urged a shift away from single-crop farming. “We need to move from single farming to mixed farming and intercropping,” he said, emphasising that farmers would benefit more from value-added products than traditional practices.
District Agriculture Officer highlighted the need to expand the cultivation of coarse grains, noting that many farmers in Bhagalpur remain unaware of their potential. The Joint Director of Agriculture pointed to complaints of Kharpatbar in pulses and recommended promoting mixed farming of maize and potato. Farmer representative Neeraj Kumar also called for a greater push towards high-value crops.
The meeting reviewed several initiatives, including demonstrations of new flower species in collaboration with farmer groups, natural farming practices, and agro-tourism activities. Reviews were also conducted of front-line demonstrations (FLDs), the National Innovations on Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) project, Bihar Skill Training outcomes, animal vaccination drives, fodder management, Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan reports, and the Malnutrition Eradication Programme.
Deputy Director Training Dr Abhay Mankar, DDM NABARD and other officials attended the meeting. Extension Education Director Dr R.K. Sohane delivered the vote of thanks, underlining the importance of collaborative efforts to transform agriculture in the state.
