CM launches Jharkhand Agriculture Trade Fair 2026, calls for water conservation & sustainable farming

Ranchi: Chief Minister Hemant Soren inaugurated the three-day Jharkhand Agriculture Trade Fair 2026 at Morabadi Ground in Ranchi on Tuesday and urged farmers to adopt water conservation measures, modern farming techniques and organic agriculture to address the challenges posed by climate change and declining groundwater levels.

Addressing farmers, researchers, agricultural scientists and participants at the event, the Chief Minister said agriculture remains the backbone of Jharkhand, with nearly 80 percent of the state’s population dependent on farming for their livelihood. He warned that water scarcity could become one of the biggest challenges in the coming years and stressed the need for rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge and efficient irrigation practices.

Soren said excessive extraction of groundwater without replenishment could create a serious crisis for both drinking water and agriculture. He urged farmers to develop water storage structures on farms and barren land, saying such efforts would benefit future generations. He also encouraged the adoption of technologies such as drip irrigation to improve productivity while reducing water consumption.

Highlighting environmental concerns, the Chief Minister said rapid urbanisation and infrastructure expansion were leading to the destruction of forests and green cover. He stressed the need to maintain a balance between development and environmental protection, warning that unchecked exploitation of natural resources could have long-term consequences.

Referring to the Birsa Harit Gram Yojana, Soren said the initiative had transformed large stretches of barren land into productive orchards. He noted that around 1.5 lakh acres had been brought under plantation activities and cited the example of women associated with the Jharkhand State Livelihood Promotion Society in Simdega, whose mangoes are now being exported to London.

The Chief Minister also called on farmers to reduce their dependence on chemical fertilisers and pesticides and shift towards organic farming. He said excessive use of chemicals not only affects consumer health but also damages the long-term sustainability of agriculture. The state government, he added, is working on measures to support organic farming and improve farmers’ incomes.

Announcing further initiatives, Soren directed the Agriculture Department to identify and map progressive farmers across the state. He said farmers demonstrating excellence and innovation would be recognised under a proposed “Chief Minister’s Honour” programme and provided assistance for advanced agricultural equipment and technology.

He also instructed the department to create a dedicated digital portal where farmers can submit questions, suggestions and grievances and receive prompt guidance from government agencies and agricultural experts.

The fair, being held from June 16 to 18, features around 200 government and private sector stalls showcasing innovations in agriculture, animal husbandry and allied sectors. Farmers attending the event will have the opportunity to interact with experts, participate in seminars and learn about modern agricultural technologies.

Among those present were Health Minister Irfan Ansari, Rural Development Minister Deepika Pandey Singh, Agriculture Minister Shilpi Neha Tirkey, Rajya Sabha MP Mahua Maji, Birsa Agricultural University Vice-Chancellor S.C. Dubey and senior government officials.