30 May 2025, West Bengal
In a major step towards rural agricultural transformation, the ICAR-Central Research Institute for Jute and Allied Fibres has taken the lead in implementing the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan across four key districts of West Bengal: North 24 Parganas, Burdwan, Bankura, and Coochbehar.
A team of 19 scientists from the institute, along with subject matter specialists from the Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) of North 24 Parganas (Additional) and Burdwan, embarked on a comprehensive outreach initiative aimed at empowering farmers with the latest agricultural innovations. The campaign brought together scientists, KVK experts, and state-level officials, who engaged directly with farming communities in various village blocks. These interactions served as a platform for sharing advanced agricultural knowledge while gathering vital feedback from the grassroots level.
The initiative focused on creating awareness about cutting-edge technologies in crop production, animal husbandry, fisheries, and horticulture. Farmers were introduced to high-yielding and stress-tolerant crop varieties, water-efficient farming methods, and sustainable pest and nutrient management practices. Discussions also covered composite fish culture, modern aquaculture systems, and innovative practices in livestock care, including artificial insemination and mobile veterinary services for remote areas.
In addition to technological demonstrations, the team informed farmers about various government schemes and subsidies tailored to support agricultural development. The farmers were encouraged to take advantage of fortnightly agro-advisories available in Hindi, Bangla, and English, which offer seasonal and crop-specific recommendations along with reliable weather forecasts, helping them make informed decisions and enhance productivity.
A special focus was placed on jute, a vital cash crop for West Bengal that supports the livelihoods of lakhs of small and marginal farmers. ICAR-CRIJAF introduced several impactful technologies for jute cultivation, including high-yielding, disease-resistant varieties such as JRO 204 for tossa jute and JRC 321 (Navin) for white jute. Farmers were also trained in the use of innovative tools like the CRIJAF Nail Weeder, designed to ease field operations for women and elderly workers, and seed drills that ensure uniform sowing and reduce seed usage.
Efforts to improve post-harvest processing and value addition were also highlighted. CRIJAF SONA, a microbial consortium developed for faster and eco-friendly retting of jute, and the CRIJAF retting tank, which conserves water while enhancing fibre quality, were demonstrated. Farmers learned about new uses for jute sticks, such as converting them into biomass fuel, particle boards, and activated carbon. The campaign also promoted entrepreneurship by showcasing opportunities in jute-based crafts, including bags, mats, and home décor items, thereby enhancing income avenues for rural women and small-scale enterprises.
Through this transformative campaign, ICAR-CRIJAF reinforced its commitment to inclusive and research-driven agricultural development. The initiative not only empowered farmers with knowledge and tools but also laid the foundation for a more resilient and sustainable rural economy in West Bengal.
(Source: ICAR-Central Research Institute for Jute and Allied Fibres, Kolkata)
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