Jharkhand Agri Fair begins, CM focuses on climate-resilient farming
PNS
Ranchi
Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Tuesday inaugurated the three-day Jharkhand Agriculture Produce and Trade Fair 2026 at Morhabadi Ground and urged farmers to adopt water conservation measures, organic farming and climate-resilient agricultural practices to safeguard the future of farming in the state.
Addressing the gathering, Soren said nearly 80 per cent of Jharkhand’s population depends on agriculture for its livelihood and warned that climate change and declining groundwater levels pose serious challenges to the sector. Stressing the importance of water harvesting, he appealed to farmers to create water storage structures in fields and wastelands and promote groundwater recharge through recharge pits and soak pits.
The Chief Minister said future agricultural growth would depend on the ability to produce higher yields with less water. He also expressed concern over rapid urbanisation and environmental degradation, stating that forests were being cleared for development while afforestation efforts remained inadequate. He called for a balance between development and environmental protection.
Highlighting the success of the Birsa Harit Gram Yojana, Soren said fruit-bearing plantations raised on barren land under the scheme were now generating positive results. He cited the example of women associated with the Jharkhand State Livelihood Promotion Society (JSLPS) in Simdega, whose mangoes are being exported to London. According to him, around 1.5 lakh acres of barren land have been brought under plantation through the initiative.
Urging farmers to reduce dependence on chemical fertilisers, Soren advocated organic farming and said the state government was working to create a supportive ecosystem for organic agriculture. He noted that improving farmers’ incomes remained a key priority of the government.
The Chief Minister directed the Agriculture Department to identify and map progressive farmers across the state. Outstanding farmers, he said, would be honoured and provided financial assistance for modern agricultural equipment. He also ordered the creation of a dedicated digital portal to enable farmers to seek guidance and share suggestions directly with government departments and agricultural experts.
On the occasion, Soren flagged off the Birsa Krishi Rath-2026 vehicles and visited exhibition stalls set up at the fair.
The event, being held from June 16 to 18, features around 200 stalls showcasing agricultural innovations, technologies and best practices. Progressive farmers, agricultural scientists and representatives of government and private organisations from across the country are participating in the fair.
