This year’s Krishi Mela in Bengaluru is poised to be a transformative event for farmers across India, equipping them with the latest insights on climate-resilient crops and groundbreaking agriculture technology. The four-day event, organized by the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bengaluru, will run from November 16 to November 19 at the GKVK campus, aiming to foster resilience in the agriculture sector amid rising climate challenges and encourage the adoption of sustainable practices.
Empowering Farmers with Climate-Smart Crops
One of the central themes of Krishi Mela 2024 is the promotion of climate-resilient crops designed to withstand the harsh conditions of changing weather patterns. As erratic monsoon patterns and extreme temperatures increasingly impact agricultural output, the event will highlight crops specifically engineered or selected for drought tolerance, flood resistance, and pest resilience.
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Crops such as climate-resilient varieties of millets, pulses, and oilseeds, which are better suited to India’s diverse agro-climatic zones, will be showcased. Farmers can explore crops like drought-tolerant ragi and foxtail millet, which hold promise for sustaining yields even in low-water conditions. Field demonstrations will allow visitors to experience these crop varieties first hand and witness their performance under various environmental conditions.
Technology-Powered Farming for a Sustainable Future
To ensure farmers remain competitive and productive, Krishi Mela 2024 will also feature the latest in agricultural technology, such as precision farming tools, artificial intelligence (AI)-powered sensors, drones for crop monitoring, and soil health management systems. These innovations aim to help farmers optimize resource use, reduce waste, and boost crop yield, even as they navigate unpredictable climate patterns.
Prominent tech companies and startups from across the country will be participating, offering live demonstrations and hands-on sessions for attendees. One highlight includes the launch of a new AI-driven app that advises farmers on crop diseases, nutrient management, and the ideal times for irrigation based on real-time data.
Workshops and Knowledge Exchange for Practical Learning
Krishi Mela 2024 will also host over 200 interactive workshops covering a wide array of topics, from organic farming and permaculture to water conservation techniques and post-harvest management. Experts in sustainable farming practices, scientists, and agri-tech innovators will lead these sessions, giving farmers a practical understanding of how to implement these solutions on their farms.
In addition to technical guidance, sessions will be held to help farmers navigate the increasing market demands for organic and sustainably sourced produce. Panels will focus on best practices for transitioning to organic certification, connecting with digital marketplaces, and leveraging social media to reach broader consumer bases.
Government Support and Financing Opportunities
This year’s event will include representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and allied departments, providing information on government schemes and financial assistance for farmers transitioning to resilient crops and technology adoption. Special focus will be given to programs aimed at promoting women farmers, helping them access funding, training, and market linkages.
Several banks and non-profit organizations are also setting up booths, offering advice on loan eligibility, insurance options, and the benefits of micro-financing for small and marginal farmers looking to upgrade their equipment or diversify their crops.
An Expected Record-Breaking Attendance
With over 500,000 farmers expected to attend, Krishi Mela 2024 is anticipated to set new records in participation, showcasing India’s drive toward a climate-adaptive, technology-driven agricultural sector. UAS Bengaluru has organized shuttle services, visitor assistance, and local guidance to make it accessible to farmers from remote and rural areas.
Looking Ahead: Building a Climate-Resilient Agricultural Ecosystem
Krishi Mela 2024 stands as a beacon for India’s agricultural transformation. By emphasizing the importance of climate resilience and technology, it aspires to empower farmers to adopt practices that not only increase their productivity but also secure their livelihoods in the face of ongoing climate threats. As India strives toward self-sufficiency in agriculture, events like these will be instrumental in steering the sector toward a sustainable future.