Patna: India’s economic future depends on the strength of its villages and farmers, said Bihar’s Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister, Vijay Kumar Sinha, during an address at Acharya Narendra Dev Agriculture and Technology University in Ayodhya. Speaking at a government-led “Developed Agriculture Resolution” campaign event, Vijay stressed that agricultural progress in states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh could transform North India into a model of food and economic prosperity.
Vijay noted that Bihar has made significant strides in crop production, with maize, wheat and paddy output doubling in recent years. “We are not just working to produce—we are working to export. Bihar’s farmer is no longer just a food provider; he is emerging as an agripreneur,” he said.
The campaign, part of the nationwide Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, aims to integrate scientific methods into agriculture and promote sustainable practices such as soil health restoration and water conservation. Over 2,170 scientists, 113 research institutes and 731 Krishi Vigyan Kendras are participating in the initiative.
Vijay underlined the need for strategic technological upgrades in the sector, calling for the use of drones, satellite imaging and AI tools under the Digital Agriculture Mission. He also emphasised diversification into high-value crops such as vegetables, fruits, medicinal plants, and millets.
“Our civilisation is deeply rooted in agriculture—from festivals to food, every aspect of our culture reflects our agrarian ethos,” he said, invoking historical figures like King Janak, who is remembered for ploughing fields during a famine.
The campaign aims to reach farmers in over 65,000 villages and contribute towards the national vision of a “Developed India 2047”.
Thanking the Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi and Vice Chancellor Colonel Bijendra Singh for facilitating the event, Vijay said such forums offer a critical platform for dialogue between farmers, scientists and policymakers.
Describing farmers as “nation builders,” he added, “Agriculture needs structure, science and respect, not just support.” He called on both Bihar and Uttar Pradesh to collaborate closely in transforming the agricultural landscape and uplifting millions who depend on farming for their livelihoods.
The event also honoured progressive farmers—Mansharam, Raja Bahadur Verma, Surendra Singh and Rama Shankar—for their contributions to innovation and productivity in agriculture. Attendees included university deans, directors, agriculture officers from Ayodhya, scientists and students. Vijay closed with a call to action: “Let us all work together with this thought—this is the foundation of a developed India.”
