A DISTRICT-LEVEL organic farming agricultural fair was organised at the Town Hall in Arang with the objective of promoting sustainable and ecofriendly farming practices. The event was held under the Chief guest; Skill Development, Technical Education, Employment and Scheduled Caste Development Minister Guru Khushwant Saheb. Addressing the gathering, the minister said that the excessive use of chemical fertilisers and toxic pesticides in agriculture has reached alarming levels, posing serious threats to human health, soil fertility and the environment. He emphasised that organic farming is the most effective and sustainable alternative to restore balance between humans and nature.

 

He appealed to farmers to gradually move away from chemical-based farming and adopt organic methods for long-term benefits. In his welcome address, Deputy Director of Agriculture Satish Awasthi highlighted the growing need to encourage organic farming in the district. He said that adopting organic practices would not only improve soil health but also help farmers access better markets and ensure safe food for consumers. Around 500 farmers from different parts of the district participated in the fair. Scientists from the Krishi Vigyan Kendra provided detailed information on advanced organic farming techniques and methods to increase productivity while maintaining soil health.

 

The Deputy General Manager of IFFCO explained the use and benefits of nano fertilisers and nano DAP. A live demonstration of drone operation for agricultural purposes was also conducted by Drone Didi, which attracted significant interest among the farmers. Exhibition stalls were set up by the Agriculture Department, allied departments and private organic institutions. The minister visited these stalls and interacted with farmers and experts.

 

During the programme, soil health cards, organic certification certificates, urad dal seeds as an alternative crop to paddy, and PSB and ZSB were distributed to farmers. Under the Fisheries Department, NFDP registration certificates and fisheries-related certificates were also distributed to fish farmers. The programme was attended by Municipal Council Chairman Sandeep Jain, K K Bhardwaj, Devnath Sahu, Lukesh Sahu, Padmani Sahu, Chandrashekhar Sahu, Santosh Chandrakar, along with other public representatives, officials and dignitaries.