Bhagalpur, India – On November 1, 2024, the Bihar Agricultural University (BAU) in Sabour announced a new business module aimed at transforming farming into a profitable enterprise for local farmers. The initiative, described by BAU Vice Chancellor D R Singh, reflects a significant shift in how agriculture is perceived across the country.
The business module focuses on developing 'agrepreneurship' by introducing innovative farming techniques and processes. This includes crop diversification, sustainable farming practices, and the integration of ancillary livestock businesses to enhance farmers' income and improve socio-economic conditions in rural areas.
Singh emphasized that the module will facilitate collaboration with financial institutions to support farmers through accessible financing options. Key components of the initiative include marketing strategies, post-harvest processing, and supply chain management, which are essential for increasing the profitability of agricultural products.
Furthermore, the module aims to promote branding and packaging of farm produce, alongside obtaining Geographical Indication (GI) tags for unique regional products. The initiative also places a strong emphasis on empowering women by fostering 'women agripreneurs' within the agricultural sector.
Overall, the BAU's business module is designed to ensure better output and remuneration for farmers, paving the way for a more sustainable and profitable agricultural landscape.