BHU Hosts Kisan Mela 2026 to Foster Scientific Farming and Strengthen Agricultural Ties
Varanasi witnessed a significant agricultural convergence as the Institute of Agricultural Sciences at Banaras Hindu University organized the Kisan Mela-2026 on Saturday. This pivotal event successfully brought together a diverse assembly of farmers, agricultural scientists, policymakers, and industry experts with the clear objective of promoting scientific farming practices and strengthening the crucial connection between research institutions and the farming community.
Minister Emphasizes Innovation and Grassroots Outreach
Addressing the inaugural function, Uttar Pradesh Minister for Agriculture and Agricultural Education and Research, Surya Pratap Shahi, delivered a compelling address highlighting the paramount importance of innovation and active farmer participation in strengthening the agriculture sector. He emphasized that scientific advancements must effectively reach farmers at the grassroots level to genuinely enhance productivity, ensure sustainability, and significantly boost farmers' income. Minister Shahi warmly appreciated the dedicated efforts of Banaras Hindu University in organizing such transformative initiatives that bridge the existing gap between research institutions and the farming community.
University Leadership Calls for Farmer Partnership in Innovation
BHU Vice-Chancellor Prof Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi strongly emphasized the critical importance of integrating rigorous scientific research with the practical, field-based knowledge possessed by farmers. He articulated that farmers hold invaluable expertise gained through years of hands-on experience and should be formally recognized as essential partners in agricultural innovation. Prof Chaturvedi highlighted that universities bear a profound responsibility to ensure that research outcomes directly and tangibly benefit farmers through comprehensive demonstrations, targeted training programmes, and extensive outreach initiatives.
Technological Transformation and Interdisciplinary Collaboration
IIT BHU Director, Prof Amit Patra, underscored the rapidly growing role of advanced technology and interdisciplinary collaboration in fundamentally transforming agriculture. He elaborated on how cutting-edge technological innovations and strategic research partnerships between premier institutions could substantially contribute to addressing modern agricultural challenges, from climate resilience to resource management, and significantly improve overall productivity and farm profitability.
Event Features Engaging Discussions and Demonstrations
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from hundreds of farmers, scientists, students, and agricultural experts who actively engaged in insightful discussions, practical demonstrations, and informative exhibitions showcasing the latest modern farming technologies, sustainable practices, and innovative agricultural equipment. Following the inaugural session, a detailed programme was conducted where leading experts discussed a wide array of crucial topics including natural farming, integrated farming systems, millet production, advanced livestock management, horticulture techniques, and various government schemes designed to support farmers.
Interactive Session and Recognition for Progressive Farmers
The programme concluded with a highly interactive question-and-answer session that facilitated direct dialogue between farmers and scientists, allowing for the exchange of practical solutions and research insights. This was followed by a prize distribution ceremony and the felicitation of progressive farmers who have demonstrated exceptional innovation and success in their agricultural practices, serving as inspiring models for the community.
