Guna, Feb 27 (NationPress) In a bid to enhance the income of farmers and promote innovative agricultural techniques, the two-day district-level “Krishi Vigyan Sah Millet Mela” (Agricultural Science-cum-Millet Fair) wrapped up on Friday in Guna, Madhya Pradesh.

Held as part of the “Agriculture Year 2026” initiative, the event aimed to prioritize farmer welfare by focusing on innovation, sustainability, and modern farming practices, drawing around 2,500 attendees to the District Panchayat Rest House, located opposite the Gayatri Mandir.

District Collector Kishore Kumar Kanyal spoke with IANS, praising the progressive mindset of Guna's agricultural community. He stated, “Our farmers are continuously innovating with new techniques, paving the way for sustainable development.”

Kanyal highlighted a remarkable improvement from the previous year, with increased crop yields leading to greater earnings and the implementation of new agricultural models.

He emphasized the importance of natural farming, stating, “While initial yields may be lower, productivity increases over time. Organic products fetch higher market prices, supported by certification that opens up export opportunities, while also enhancing public health.”

To further encourage organic farming, the local administration has set up “Haats” (weekly Sunday markets), with plans to expand this initiative to block and panchayat levels.

Kanyal also commended the critical role of agricultural 'Sakhis'—women who are stepping up as technical mentors, sharing advanced farming techniques with their peers.

This year’s event introduced an e-development system that simplified fertilizer procurement, allowing farmers to book slots online, thus avoiding long waiting times.

Additionally, he noted Guna’s exceptional success in reducing stubble burning, establishing the district as a frontrunner in environmental responsibility.

The fair welcomed numerous dignitaries and officials, including BJP District President Dharmendra Singh Sikarwar, District Panchayat members Mahendra Singh Kirar and Santosh Dhakad, MP representative Ashok Sharma, Kal Singh Patelia, and Agriculture Standing Committee Chairperson Virendra Singh Rajput, among others.

Key agricultural figures, such as Deputy Director of Agriculture Sanjeev Sharma and Deputy Director of Horticulture KPS Kirar, were present to engage with farmers and experts throughout the event.

Local farmer Hariom Dhakad expressed appreciation for the fair, noting its valuable insights, while Agricultural Sakhi Sabita Kashyap from Vijaypura village shared, “We are empowering fellow farmers with advanced techniques and organic methods.”

Deputy Director Sharma underscored the significance of innovation in modern agriculture. Testimonials from forward-thinking farmers illustrated the transformative effects of these practices.

Farmers such as Vijay Raghuvanshi and Ram Raghuvanshi from Renzhai detailed their embrace of innovative methods, while Mahendra Singh Raghuwanshi from Gehunkheda and Manoj Dhakad from Panchora reported substantial improvements in their crop yields.

Bharat Singh Dhakad from Dhanankhedi and Nand Kishore Kirar from Moi echoed positive sentiments regarding their increased productivity and financial gains.

Dheeraj Tiwari showcased cutting-edge machinery and techniques to attendees.

Collector Kanyal explored departmental stalls where experts from Krishi Vigyan Kendras in Dewas, Ashoknagar, and Aron—including Dr RP Sharma, Dr KS Bhargav, Dr BS Gupta, Dr. VK Jain, Dr Hemant Kumar, Dr Dharmendra Singh, and Dr. Amit Kumar—provided guidance on various agricultural equipment and techniques.

Interactive sessions with specialists and exemplary farmers enriched the discussions, supplemented by exhibits on natural farming, millet varieties, fertilizers, seeds, pesticides, irrigation systems, and machinery from diverse vendors.

The event concluded with the presentation of certificates to innovative farmers, recognizing their contributions to the advancement of agriculture.

This mela not only celebrated Guna's rich agrarian legacy but also signaled a promising future for resilient, eco-friendly farming practices, aligning with broader state efforts to uplift rural economies amid changing climatic and market conditions.