Bihar needs IT based innovations in agriculture sector
Patna (BiharTimes): A national seminar on enabling environment for sustainable agriculture” was held here on Monday. A multi–stakeholders dialog was organised by Farms and Farmers (FnF), in partnership with Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) to discuss key issues of agriculture sector and emerging challenges specifically focusing on Bihar
Sudhir Kumar, Principal Secretary, Department of Agriculture, Government of Bihar was the Chief Guest for the event who strongly endorsed the aim of the meeting and encouraged the parties to find innovative ways to help improve livelihoods and farm productivity. Himanshu Rai, Director of Agriculture, Government of Bihar, opened the session with his keynote address and stressed on importance of efficient use of resources for sustainable agriculture.
In the event, there were three detailed discussions on agricultural policy, avenues and challenges in agri-finance, and challenges and opportunities in reaching out to end user- farmers respectively.
Anil Kumar Jha, Deputy Director, Department of Agriculture, Government of Bihar, elaborated on the agriculture policy development process, and specifically invited stakeholder participation discussed about the 3rd Agricultural Roadmap and invited stakeholders for suggestions into framing of the roadmap. Mithilesh Kumar, DGM, NABARD, discussed the challenges in financing Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and focused on the importance of third party guarantee and operational stability of FPOs for ease of financing. Shubhra Kumar from One Acre Fund shared her views about the wants of farmers and the role of technology and innovations in this space
FnF and EDF presented the ICT platforms of DeHaat and Tristle highlighting how the use of appropriate technology, local entrepreneurs, and institutions can come together to deliver 360 degree services to farmers with a transparent and data driven approach thus becoming a powerful force for change.
