On the occasion of National Farmers’ Day, a two-day Farmers’ Fair on the theme “Anusandhan se Atmanirbharta ki Udaan: Samriddh Krishi, Sashakt Kisan” (From Research to Self-Reliance: Progressive Agriculture, Empowered Farmers) was organised at the ICAR–Research Complex for Eastern Region (ICAR-RCER), Patna, from 23–24 December 2025. The objective of the fair was to honour the contributions of farmers to nation-building, disseminate advanced scientific agricultural technologies, and create awareness about various government schemes.
In his virtual address, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, urged farmers to adopt modern, science-based agro-techniques to enhance income while maintaining environmental sustainability. He also highlighted the importance of government schemes, particularly the VB-G RAM G Act, 2025, aimed at ensuring guaranteed rural employment and sustainable livelihoods.
Ram Kripal Yadav, Agriculture Minister, Government of Bihar, graced the inaugural function as the Chief Guest. In his address, the Minister appreciated the exemplary research contributions of ICAR-RCER, Patna, including technologies for sustainable intensification of rice-fallow areas and the development of improved, climate-resilient varieties of rice, pulses, and horticultural crops. He stated that to achieve the targets of the Bihar Agricultural Road Map, the Government of Bihar is working in close coordination with central institutions and other organisations for farmers’ welfare. He also assured continued government support towards enhancing farmers’ prosperity. On this occasion, the Chief Guest and other dignitaries released a publication and felicitated innovative farmers for their significant contributions.
The Guest of Honour, Dr K.M. Bujarbaruah, former Deputy Director General (AS), ICAR, New Delhi, highlighted that since Independence, the country’s population has increased nearly fourfold, while food grain production has increased more than six times. He emphasised Bihar’s significant contribution to this national achievement and appreciated the strong collaboration between ICAR-RCER, Patna, the Government of Bihar, and other institutions in advancing agricultural development in the state.
Dr Niranjan Kalita, Vice-Chancellor, Assam Veterinary and Fisheries University, Guwahati; Dr D.J. Rajkhowa, former Joint Director, ICAR–NEHR, Nagaland Centre; Dr Anjani Kumar Singh, Director, ATARI, Patna; and D.P. Tripathi, Director, BAMETI, also shared their views and encouraged farmers to adopt scientific farming technologies.
In his welcome address, Dr Anup Das, Director, ICAR-RCER, Patna, described the Farmers’ Fair as a strong bridge between research laboratories and farmers’ fields. He reiterated the institute’s commitment to developing, testing, and effectively disseminating farmer-centric technologies to make agriculture more sustainable, profitable, and climate-resilient in eastern India.
The Chief Guest of the valedictory function was Dr Sanjeev Chaurasia, MLA, Digha, Patna. In his address, Dr Chaurasia appreciated the efforts of ICAR-RCER, Patna, in generating farmer-centric technologies to enhance productivity and income. He emphasised that the VB-G RAM G Act ensures income security and supports skill development for inclusive growth.
Farmer–scientist interactions on government schemes, natural farming, climate-resilient agriculture, and the role of livestock and horticultural crops were organised during the two-day event. Farmers also participated in field visits to observe improved and innovative farming systems and horti-livestock-based models. The fair featured exhibitions of improved technologies and products by 25 institutions, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), farmer organisations, and NGOs. Tribal folk dances and food stalls managed by students added cultural vibrancy to the event.
The two-day programme witnessed participation from around 2,120 farmers, experts, and students. The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr Ujjwal Kumar, Organising Secretary of the Farmers’ Fair, said Umesh Kumar Mishra, Member Secretary (Media), ICAR-RCER, Patna.