Minister Eshwar B. Khandre and other dignitaries attend the inauguration of Job Mela, Millet Mela, Fruit and Flower Fair and Fisheries Fair at Nehru Stadium in Bidar on Sunday. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Minister for Forests, Ecology and Environment and in-charge of Bidar District Office Eshwar B. Khandre on Sunday said agriculture can become a profitable sector only if it is supported by sustained research, assured market access and effective delivery of government programs at farmers’ doorsteps.
He was speaking after inaugurating Job Mela, Millet Mela, Fruits and Flowers and Fisheries Fair jointly organized by District Administration, Zilla Panchayat, Skill Development, Agriculture, Horticulture and Fisheries Departments at Nehru Stadium in Bidar.
Stating that nearly 75% of the district’s population depends on agriculture due to limited industrial presence, Mr. Khandre emphasized the need to strengthen the agricultural sector.
He noted that approximately 10,000 acres are cultivated annually in the district, of which 50% is soybean, 25% tur (pigeon pea) and the remaining 25% other crops.
He encouraged farmers to diversify their farming practices instead of relying on a single crop and encouraged more millet cultivation.
“Millets are not just food; they are the basis of a healthy life. They require less water, are climate resilient and provide farmers with a stable income. They protect both agriculture and public health,” he said, appealing to people to include millet in their daily diet.
He also urged farmers to focus on value added products to improve their income.
The minister said the primary objective of the mela is to create awareness about government schemes, horticulture products and market support schemes to ensure that farmers get remunerative prices for their crops.
Highlighting the government’s support during the recent adverse events, Mr. Khandre said that over 1.65 lakh hectares of crops were damaged due to excessive rainfall last year.
“The government has deposited ₹ 288 crore directly into the bank accounts of 1.92 crore farmers as compensation. Besides, about ₹ 100 crore has already been paid under crop insurance and another ₹ 50 crore is expected soon. In total, nearly ₹ 450 crore has been credited to the accounts of farmers in the district,” he said.
He also emphasized the need to reduce the excessive use of chemicals in agriculture and promote sustainable practices. Irrigation projects like Karanja and Mekar are operational and steps will be taken to fill the lakes in Aurad taluk, he added, reiterating the government’s commitment to farmers’ welfare.
Zilla Panchayat CEO Girish Dilip Badole said that 32 companies are participating in the Job Mela and urged job seekers to register in large numbers through the online link available through village level NRLM and GPLF networks.
The minister later visited 49 stalls set up by various ministries and private institutions as part of the fair.
Earlier, Siridhanya Nadige (Millet Walk) was flagged off by Bidar South MLA Shailendra Beldale from Chhatrapati Shivaji Circle at Nehru Stadium, with women carrying millets attracting attention.
City administration and Minister Haj Rahim Khan, Karnataka Fisheries Development Corporation Chairperson Mala Narayanrao, KADA Chairperson Babu Honnanayak, Deputy Commissioner Shilpa Sharma, Bidar City Corporation Commissioner Mukul Jain and other officials were present.
Published – 22 Feb 2026 20:25 IST
