Bihar to get APEDA office for boosting exports, union agriculture minister announces new initiatives for Bihar farmers

Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has introduced a series of new measures aimed at benefiting farmers in Bihar. These decisions were made following a high-level meeting between Bihar’s Agriculture Minister, Shri Mangal Pandey, and Union Agriculture Minister Chouhan at Krishi Bhawan in New Delhi.

APEDA Office to Boost Agricultural Exports in Bihar:

A key outcome of the meeting is the decision to open an office of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) at Krishi Bhawan in Bihar. This new office is expected to enhance the export of agricultural products and facilitate better support for farmers. The CMD of APEDA has approved this initiative.

Government Support for Hybrid Seeds and Increased Funding:

Emphasizing the government’s commitment to farmers' welfare, Shri Chouhan highlighted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, comprehensive measures are being taken to develop Bihar's agriculture sector. The Union Agriculture Ministry will support hybrid and advanced seeds to boost crop production. Additionally, Bihar request for increased allocations under the National Agriculture Development Scheme has been approved, with the second installment of funds released.

Additional Funds for Bihar’s Agricultural Sector:

Shri Chouhan praised Bihar’s strong performance in agriculture and announced increased financial support for the Krishonnati Yojana. He also directed the modernization of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Regional Maize Research and Seed Production Center in Bihar.

Support for Litchi, Honey, and Makhana Farmers: Further, Shri Chouhan issued guidelines to assist farmers involved in litchi and honey production, recognizing Bihar's specialty in these areas. The decision to strengthen the National Research Centre (NRC) on Makhana was also made, promising significant benefits for farmers.

Commitment to Farmers’ Welfare Under PM Modi’s Leadership: The Union Minister reiterated that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the Central Government is dedicated to ensuring the welfare and progress of farmers, with special attention given to the needs of Bihar's farmers.