President Droupadi Murmu, during the launch of an agricultural strategy for Bihar, emphasized the importance of climate-friendly farming practices and urged the state's farmers to embrace organic cultivation. In Patna, she remarked, "Bihar has experienced a reduced rainfall in recent times, despite its historical association with rivers and ponds. Therefore, water conservation is imperative. Climate-resilient agriculture will play a pivotal role in preserving our environment. I am pleased to note the increasing interest in organic farming, and it is commendable that the state government has established an organic farming corridor along the Ganga."
The event, which marked the introduction of the fourth Agricultural Roadmap set to continue until 2028, was attended by Governor Rajendra Arlekar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav.
President Murmu expressed her satisfaction with the agricultural roadmap, which includes provisions for mega food parks and export infrastructure. She also commended the enhanced wheat and maize yields in Bihar and celebrated the state's achievements in becoming a leading producer of honey, makhana, and fish.
As a farmer's daughter herself, Murmu disclosed her desire to return to her village and engage in farming after her presidential tenure.
During the event, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar reminded President Murmu of JD(U)'s support for her presidential candidacy and invited her to visit Bihar regularly. This marked President Murmu's first visit to Bihar since assuming the presidency.
President Murmu warmly accepted the invitation and described herself as a "Bihari," acknowledging the historical connections between her home state of Orissa and Bihar. She praised Bihar as a vital contributor to India's development, emphasizing its significance as the land of Buddha, where "ill-will and conflict" have no place.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar detailed the fourth agricultural roadmap's budget, which amounts to Rs 1.62 lakh crore, involving contributions from various agricultural and other departments. He applauded Bihar's farmers for their accomplishments in potato and rice farming and highlighted their exceptional productivity in vegetable production. The CM also noted their focus on approximately 9 lakh crore acres, primarily in North Bihar, where waterlogging persists for eight to nine months each year. These areas are being developed for fish farming and specialized agriculture, contributing to Bihar's self-sufficiency in fish production.
Furthermore, the CM urged Governor Arlekar to assess the agricultural roadmap and provide feedback to the relevant departments.