Patna: Bihar Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha has approved the expansion of the School Soil Health Program under the Soil Health and Fertility Scheme, paving the way for the establishment of mini soil testing laboratories in 629 government and PM SHRI schools across the state during the 2026-27 financial year.
The decision was taken during a review meeting held at Krishi Bhawan in Mithapur, Patna, where the minister assessed the progress of schemes being implemented under the Soil Health and Fertility Scheme and the Chief Minister’s Horticulture Mission.
Expansion of School Soil Health Program
Officials informed the meeting that mini soil testing laboratories had already been established in 160 PM SHRI and government schools during the 2025-26 financial year. The initiative seeks to introduce students to scientific methods of soil testing and encourage greater understanding of agriculture and environmental management.
Vijay Kumar Sinha said the programme would be expanded significantly in the coming financial year and implemented with full transparency. Students of Classes 7, 8, 9 and 11 will participate in practical activities such as soil sample collection, testing and soil health assessment through the laboratories.
According to the minister, the initiative is expected to develop scientific thinking, technical skills and a research-oriented approach among school students.
Funding and Farmer Benefits
The cost of establishing each mini soil testing laboratory has been fixed at Rs 1 lakh. The Central Government will provide 60 per cent of the funding, while the State Government will contribute the remaining 40 per cent.
Under targets set by the Government of India, each participating school will collect and test 50 soil samples and distribute Soil Health Cards to farmers. Officials said the programme would strengthen collaboration between schools, students and farmers while promoting balanced fertiliser use and improved soil management practices.
Dragon Fruit Development Scheme Reviewed
During the meeting, the minister also reviewed the Dragon Fruit Development Scheme being implemented under the Fourth Agriculture Roadmap through the Chief Minister’s Horticulture Mission.
He said the scheme has received approval for implementation over the past three financial years with a total outlay of Rs 3 crore. For the 2026-27 financial year, Rs 60 lakh has been allocated, out of which sanction has been issued for the withdrawal and expenditure of Rs 13.62 lakh.
Focus on Modernisation and Crop Diversification
Vijay Kumar Sinha said the state government remains committed to agricultural modernisation, crop diversification and increasing farmers’ incomes.
He said initiatives such as school-based soil testing laboratories and the promotion of high-value crops like dragon fruit would encourage innovation and self-reliance in the agricultural sector. The minister directed officials to ensure timely and effective implementation of the schemes so that both students and farmers receive maximum benefit.
