Ranchi: CM Hemant Soren on Tuesday called for urgent water conservation and climate-resilient farming while inaugurating the three-day Jharkhand Krishi Vyapar Mela 2026 at Morabadi Ground.He directed the agriculture department to create a dedicated portal for farmers and create the mapping and recognition of progressive cultivators across the state.Addressing the gathering, Hemant said the state govt was committed to preparing farmers for an increasingly competitive and climate-stressed agricultural environment. “We have tried to present a platform through the mela to help our farmers prepare themselves for the competitive environment of the present day,” he said, adding that nearly 80% of Jharkhand’s population depends on agriculture.Flagging concerns over climate change, Hemant warned of a looming water crisis due to unchecked groundwater exploitation and urged farmers to adopt water harvesting measures, recharge pits and low-water farming practices. “Whatever we take from the earth, we must return it. Otherwise, nature will not forgive us,” he said, stressing the need to conserve water for future generations.Among key announcements, the CM directed the agriculture department to develop a special portal for real-time resolution of farmers’ queries and said progressive cultivators using modern techniques will be identified, honoured and provided financial assistance. He reiterated the govt’s focus on increasing farmer incomes and strengthening their role as agri-entrepreneurs.Highlighting the Birsa Harit Gram Yojana, Hemant said that fruit plantations on around 1.5 lakh acres of barren land are yielding results, citing mango exports from Simdega to London as a major success.The fair, featuring around 200 exhibitors, showcases modern technologies, irrigation systems, farm machinery and agri-startups. Ministers Shilpi Neha Tirkey, Deepika Pandey Singh and Irfan Ansari were present. Tirkey said the event, the first such held in 25 years, aims to transform farmers into entrepreneurs.The fair will conclude on Thursday.
