In a significant push to revolutionize farming in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, the Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) in Varanasi has joined forces with Banaras Hindu University and local Farmer Producer Organisations. Together, they are spearheading a new Agritech Business Park initiative designed to make farmers economically self-reliant.
A Collaborative Meeting for Farmer Empowerment
The initiative will kick off with a crucial meeting scheduled for Sunday, which aims to accelerate the holistic development of the agriculture and agri-business sector in the region. This gathering is expected to see the active participation of around 100 farmers from Eastern UP, providing them a direct platform to engage with experts.
Adding considerable weight to the event, the meeting will be attended by the eminent agricultural scientist, Prof Panjab Singh. His presence underscores the scientific and practical approach being taken to address the challenges faced by the agrarian community.
Ambitious Goals: Tripling Incomes and Curbing Migration
Programme coordinator Prof Sushant Kumar Srivastava outlined the ambitious vision behind the project. The primary goal is no less than tripling the income of farmers in Eastern UP, a region currently lagging in the adoption of modern technologies, value addition, and robust agri-business opportunities.
Prof Srivastava explained that the innovative concept of the Agritech Business Park draws inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Vocal for Local" policy and the state's leadership. The aim is to translate these national policies into tangible, grassroots-level agricultural transformation.
One of the core objectives is to directly connect agricultural produce from rural areas with local markets and end consumers. By creating efficient local supply chains and business opportunities, the initiative seeks to reduce the economic pressure that forces farmers to migrate to cities in search of livelihood.
Tailored Solutions for Eastern UP's Unique Landscape
Recognizing that a one-size-fits-all model won't work, the program is designed with local conditions in mind. The Institute of Management Studies will take the lead in developing innovative and practical agri-business models. These models will be specifically crafted, keeping in view the distinct geographical, social, and agro-economic conditions of Eastern UP.
This collaborative effort between a premier technology institute, a renowned university, farmer collectives, and scientists marks a promising, multi-pronged approach to solving deep-rooted issues in India's agricultural heartland.
