Research and market access vital to making farming profitable: Minister

Minister Eshwar Khandre emphasizes research and market access as keys to profitable farming at Bidar's agricultural events.

Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister and Bidar district in-charge Eshwar B. Khandre on Sunday said that agriculture can become a profitable sector only when backed by sustained research, assured market access and effective delivery of government schemes on the doorsteps of farmers.

He was speaking after inaugurating a Job Mela, Millet Mela, Fruit and Flower Exhibition and Fisheries Fair organised jointly by the district administration, the Zilla Panchayat, the departments of Skill Development, Agriculture, Horticulture and Fisheries at Nehru Stadium in Bidar.

Stating that nearly 75% of the district’s population depends on agriculture due to limited industrial presence, Mr. Khandre stressed the need to strengthen the farm sector.

He noted that around 10 lakh acres are cultivated annually in the district, of which 50% is under soybean, 25% under tur (pigeon pea) and the remaining 25% under other crops.

He urged farmers to diversify their cropping pattern instead of relying on a single crop and encouraged greater cultivation of millets.

“Millets are not merely foodgrains; they are the foundation of a healthy life. They require less water, are climate-resilient and ensure stable income for farmers. They protect both agriculture and public health,” he said and appealed to people to incorporate millets into their daily diet.