Efficient water use vital for sustainable agriculture: Minister

Patna: Union minister of state for Jal Shakti Raj Bhushan Choudhary on Sunday emphasised that water is the “lifeblood” of agriculture and that proper utilisation of water resources is critical for increasing crop yields and ensuring sustainability of India’s farming sector.Speaking as chief guest at the valedictory session of the three-day regional Kisan Mela organised by Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University (RPCAU) at Pusa in Samastipur district, the minister urged agricultural scientists to realise the principle of “Per Drop More Crop” and ensure enhancement of water-use efficiency at the farm level through micro-irrigation systems such as drip and sprinkler irrigation.

He said sustainable growth in agriculture requires efficient water management, particularly in the context of climate change impacts such as erratic rainfall and flood-related challenges.Choudhary appreciated the efforts of the university in organising the Kisan Mela, which showcased the potential of modern technologies in transforming the agricultural sector in Bihar and elsewhere for the benefit of farmers.

He also appreciated the university’s recent initiatives in digital agriculture aimed at making India a developed nation.RPCAU vice-chancellor P S Pandey said the three-day fair provided a platform for thousands of farmers of the region to learn about the latest agricultural technologies and innovations.“We are committed to working with farmers, scientists, and policymakers to achieve our vision of a prosperous and sustainable agricultural sector,” he said.The Kisan Mela featured over 200 national and international stalls showcasing modern agricultural technologies, including drone technology, hydroponics and AI-based farming. The event also included technical sessions, farmer–scientist interactions and demonstrations on various aspects of agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry and fisheries.The digital agriculture stalls, showcasing the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in agriculture, were among the major highlights of the fair. The stalls demonstrated how mobile phones can be used to operate micro-irrigation systems and manage nutrient deficiencies in crops.