Patna: Bihar is steadily positioning itself as a leading example of climate-resilient agriculture in India. In response to the growing threat of climate change and its impact on food security, the state has expanded climate-smart farming practices across all 38 districts, involving nearly 3 lakh farmers.
What began as a pilot project in 2019–20 has now evolved into a large-scale transformation in agricultural practices, showing visible results across rural Bihar.
From Pilot Project to Statewide Movement
The journey of climate-resilient farming in Bihar started in 2019–20 as an experimental initiative. Over the years, the program has expanded significantly and now covers:
- All 38 districts of Bihar
- Around 190 model villages practicing climate-resilient farming
- Large-scale adoption of improved agricultural techniques under expert supervision
Agricultural scientists from Krishi Vigyan Kendras have played a key role in guiding farmers and demonstrating around 20 different crop rotation models directly in fields.
Read also: Saavi Global Sets Up ₹300 Crore Textile & Leather Unit in Madhubani, Boosting ‘Made in Bihar’ Vision
Large-Scale Impact on Farmers and Land
Between 2019 and 2025, the initiative has reached impressive scale and impact:
- Around 2.63 lakh acres of land covered under Kharif, Rabi, and summer crops
- Nearly 2.78 lakh farmers directly benefited from the program
- Over 6.4 lakh farmers trained through exposure visits and capacity-building programs
These efforts have not only improved productivity but also encouraged farmers to adopt modern and sustainable agricultural practices.
Promoting Efficient Water and Land Use
A major focus of the program has been improving resource efficiency. One of the key interventions includes land leveling using laser technology:
- 12,807 acres of land leveled using laser land levelers
- Improved water conservation
- Reduced cost of cultivation
- Better yield efficiency
This has helped farmers optimize irrigation and reduce dependency on excessive water usage.
Boosting Millets and Climate-Resilient Crops
Bihar has also pushed the cultivation of traditional and climate-resilient crops, especially millets.
- 1,910 acres under cultivation of 9 types of millets:
(jowar, bajra, ragi, sama, kodon, kutki, kangni, cheena, browntop millet)
This shift supports nutrition security while also helping farmers adapt to changing climate conditions.
Modern Farming Tools Reducing Crop Waste
The state has introduced several modern agricultural tools and techniques to reduce crop residue burning and improve soil health:
- 1,892 acres of wheat cultivated using Happy Seeder
- 5,577 tons of straw managed through Straw Balers
- 10,978 acres used waste decomposers for crop residue management
- Significant reduction in crop residue burning across 17,387 acres
These measures are also helping improve air quality and soil fertility.
Towards a Climate-Smart Future
With expanding adoption, better training, and improved technology access, Bihar’s climate-resilient agriculture program is shaping a more sustainable future for farming.
The initiative is not just improving yields but also building long-term resilience against climate change—positioning Bihar as a growing model for sustainable agriculture in India.
Read also: Bihar Launches Diidi Adhikar Kendra to Provide Legal Aid and Resolve Issues for Jeevika Diidis
