Union Agriculture Minister Ram Kripal Yadav delivered a strong message on the future of farming, stressing the critical need to adopt scientific methods during a key address in Mumbai on Friday. He introduced a powerful new slogan, "Lab for Land," aimed at encouraging farmers to embrace research-driven agriculture.
Dialogue on Scientific Farming at Kisan Samvad
Speaking at the 'Kisan Samvad' function, which was organized by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Cotton Research Institute, Yadav positioned the dialogue as a vital medium. He stated that such conversations are essential for expanding the reach of the 'Lab for Land' concept and making it practically accessible to farmers across the nation.
"Linking scientific research and innovations with the practical knowledge of farmers themselves is crucial to make agriculture more viable," the minister asserted. He underscored that the synergy between formal research from laboratories and the indigenous wisdom of farmers holds the key to a sustainable and profitable agricultural future.
Bihar's Agrarian Economy: The Core Foundation
Minister Yadav used Bihar's landscape as a prime example to highlight agriculture's central role. He revealed compelling statistics: 76% of Bihar's population is dependent on agriculture, and the sector contributes a significant 21% to the state's Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). This makes agriculture the undeniable foundation of Bihar's economic growth and stability.
"With this vision, the government has launched the state’s agriculture roadmap, guiding planning and implementation of farming activities," Yadav explained. He further detailed ongoing efforts to link the agriculture sector directly with markets, a strategic move designed to increase farmers' incomes and ensure better returns for their produce.
Focus on Crop Diversification and Cotton
Delving into specifics, the minister addressed cotton farming. He advocated for its adoption under the government's crop diversification programme. Yadav pointed out that such diversification can effectively reduce risk for farmers and provide them with opportunities for higher financial returns, moving beyond traditional crop cycles.
The minister's address in Mumbai marks a continued push by the government to modernize India's agricultural practices. By promoting the 'Lab for Land' ethos and connecting research to real-world farming, the aim is to build a more resilient and prosperous agrarian economy, with states like Bihar at the forefront of this transformation.
