Varanasi: Organised at the Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, on Saturday, Kisan Mela-2026 brought together farmers, agricultural scientists, policymakers and experts with the objective of promoting scientific farming and strengthening connection between research institutions and farming community.Addressing the inaugural function, UP minister for agriculture and agricultural education and research, Surya Pratap Shahi, highlighted importance of innovation and farmer participation to strengthen the agriculture sector and emphasised that scientific advancements must reach farmers at the grassroots level to enhance productivity, sustainability, and farmers’ income. He appreciated efforts of BHU in organising such initiatives to bridge gap between research institutions and farming community.Emphasising importance of integrating scientific research with practical knowledge of farmers, BHU Vice-Chancellor Prof Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi said farmers possess invaluable field-based expertise and should be recognised as partners in agricultural innovation. He highlighted that universities have a responsibility to ensure that research outcomes directly benefit farmers through demonstrations, training programmes, and outreach initiatives.IIT BHU, director, Prof Amit Patra, emphasised growing role of technology and interdisciplinary collaboration in transforming agriculture and highlighted how technological innovations and research partnerships between institutions could contribute to addressing modern agricultural challenges and improving productivity.The event witnessed participation of farmers, scientists, students, and agricultural experts who engaged in discussions, demonstrations and exhibitions showcasing modern farming technologies and practices.Following the inaugural session, a programme was held in which experts discussed topics like natural farming, integrated farming systems, millet production, livestock management, horticulture and govt schemes for farmers. The programme concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session between farmers and scientists, followed by prize distribution and felicitation of progressive farmers.
