The Balram Krishi Mahotsav was organised at Krishi Upaj Mandi premises on Tuesday under the Kisan Kalyan Varsh, on Tuesday. Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav joined the programme virtually and stressed the need to connect farmers with modern farming techniques and promote natural farming. Dr Yadav said farming could become more profitable by promoting horticulture, fisheries and animal husbandry along with crop cultivation.

 

He said the government was also encouraging natural farming and farm based industries to strengthen the rural economy. Highlighting Jabalpur’s agricultural potential, the Chief Minister referred to products such as peas and water chestnuts. He said dairy farming, milk production and food processing could help increase farmers’ income. He also stressed the need to provide good quality cattle to farmers and encourage them to take up animal husbandry. CM Yadav said better coordination between agriculture and industries could help farmers reach wider markets for their produce. He also called for encouraging progressive farmers and providing information about modern farm equipment and new techniques. Public Works Minister Rakesh Singh also addressed farmers virtually.

 

He said the festival is an important platform to connect farmers with government schemes and modern farming methods. He stressed the need for better market facilities, improved mandis and wider markets for agricultural products. Rajya Sabha member Sumitra Valmiki said direct interaction with the Chief Minister would help the government understand farmers’ problems and needs. Apex Bank administrator Mahendra Singh Yadav spoke about efforts to provide crop loans at zero per cent interest. Mayor Jagat Bahadur Singh, MLAs Ashok Rohani and Neeraj Singh, BJP Kisan Morcha state president Jaipal Singh Chawda, Jabalpur Development Authority chairman Sandeep Jain, BJP leaders and Collector Arun Kumar Vishwakarma, along with officials from the agriculture department and other departments participated in the district-level programme. Live models showcasing departmental activities were displayed at the event. Cultural programmes were also organised.