Synopsis
Bihar is on the verge of a significant agricultural transformation, led by Bihar Agricultural University, aiming for a $1 trillion economy by 2047. With initiatives like Mission Purvodaya, the state is enhancing its agricultural practices through innovation, smart farming, and a focus on high-value crops.Key Takeaways
- Bihar is a key player in India's economic future.
- Focus on value-centric over production-centric farming.
- Training for over 265,000 farmers in modern techniques.
- Establishment of 37 agri-startups fostering innovation.
- Bihar produces 40% of India's litchi and 80% of Makhana.
Bhagalpur (Bihar), April 15 (NationPress) As India advances towards the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, a significant agricultural transformation is emerging in Bihar under the initiative of Mission Purvodaya. From the rich plains of the Ganga to the organic farmlands across its 16 districts, Bihar is rapidly positioning itself as the heart of the Second Green Revolution — one fueled by smart farming, innovation, and empowerment.
Leading this initiative is Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), whose Vice Chancellor, D.R. Singh, foresees Bihar playing a pivotal role in India’s journey towards becoming a global economic giant.
In an exclusive conversation with IANS, Singh outlined the strategy that could transform Bihar’s agriculture-led economy into a $1 trillion success story by 2047.
"Bihar possesses all the essentials — fertile soil, plentiful water, a diligent workforce, and a spirit of innovation. If India aims to realize the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat, the second green revolution must commence in Purvodaya, and Bihar stands ready," Singh stated to IANS.
The statistics reflect a promising outlook. Organic farming is flourishing across 16 districts along the nutrient-rich Ganga. With over 265,000 farmers trained in modern practices, the shift from traditional to smart agriculture is in progress. The current emphasis is on high-value crops, value addition, and sustainable methodologies.
Bihar’s agricultural variety enhances its competitive edge. The state now produces 40 percent of India’s litchi and 80 percent of Makhana, both recognized with GI tags. Millet farming has increased, fish exports have commenced, and dairy development is accelerating. The establishment of the Makhana Board by the Centre further highlights the region’s potential.
“Bihar is not just cultivating crops; we are nurturing innovation,” Singh remarked.
"Our university has already incubated 37 agri-startups, enriching both the state and national entrepreneurial landscape. We are not merely job seekers; we are job creators."
The BAU is crafting a detailed vision document to be unveiled in 2026. This document will outline the future of agriculture in Bihar, focusing on climate-resilient crop varieties, integrated fisheries, dairy farming, and cutting-edge agri-tech. Scientists from 19 Indian states are already contributing to this initiative.
Singh underscores the necessity for a paradigm shift. "We need to transition from production-centric farming to value-centric farming. Our farmers should aspire to think beyond just food production — they should focus on food innovation."
Bihar’s agricultural roadmap, recently updated in 2023, is already yielding results — record outputs in paddy and maize, heightened vegetable production, and expanding agricultural clusters. These accomplishments have earned Bihar numerous Krishi Karman Awards from the Centre.
With fertile land, an enthusiastic workforce, and an academic institution spearheading genuine innovation, Bihar is not just poised to observe but to lead India’s agricultural renaissance.
"The seeds of the Second Green Revolution have been planted," he concluded.
"And they are commencing to flourish - right here, in Bihar."
