Govt promoting horticulture, high-value farming: Minister

Patna: Agriculture minister Ram Kripal Yadav inaugurated a three-day horticulture festival (Bagwani Mahotsav) at Gandhi Maidan on Friday. The event was presided over by principal secretary Narmadeshwar Lal and attended by officials from the department of agriculture.Speaking on this occasion, Yadav said the state govt is prioritising horticulture and high-value farming as the basis for agriculture development. He described horticulture and cash crops as an “ATM model” for farmers. He said, “Horticulture and cash crops are like an ATM for farmers today, providing quick income and a path to sustainable prosperity.”The govt strategy involves developing crop clusters in every district and establishing processing units.

The minister added that the Bihar Agriculture Export Policy aims to take crops such as makhana, honey, fruits, and vegetables to global markets.The department is promoting the cultivation of dragon fruit, strawberry, and spices alongside traditional crops. Technical focus areas include drip irrigation, mulching, poly houses, and tissue culture plants to lower costs and increase output.To support these efforts, the govt is strengthening Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) in every block.

These organisations are intended to reduce the role of middlemen and ensure farmers receive better prices for their produce.Horticulture director Abhishek Kumar said the policies aim to create employment in packaging and cold chains. He highlighted the role of the National Makhana Board in managing exports.Principal secretary urged farmers to adopt crop diversification. He highlighted that micro-irrigation schemes are being implemented to support fruit and medicinal plant cultivation in the arid regions of south Bihar.