Bareilly (Uttar Pradesh): The Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, organised a farmers’ fair and exhibition on the theme “Healthy Animals – Prosperous Farmers: Dream of a Developed India” at Veerpur Makruka village in the Bhojipura development block of Bareilly.
The event was organised by the Joint Directorate of Extension Education of IVRI and witnessed participation from a large number of farmers from across the district. Farmers received valuable information on modern techniques related to animal husbandry, agriculture and allied sectors.
The chief guest of the programme was Roopsi Tiwari, Joint Director (Extension Education) at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research–IVRI, Izatnagar. Addressing the gathering, she said farmers and agriculture form the backbone of India and the country’s overall development is not possible without the prosperity of farmers. She encouraged farmers to adopt scientific methods in agriculture and livestock management and urged them to interact regularly with scientists to benefit from new technologies.
Several experts delivered technical lectures during the event. Heera Ram, Principal Scientist from the Parasitology Division, spoke about internal and external parasites in livestock, their harmful effects and methods for effective control through regular deworming and hygienic management. U. K. De, Principal Scientist, highlighted the identification of common animal diseases, early symptoms, timely treatment and the importance of vaccination to reduce economic losses.
Meanwhile, S. K. Saha, Principal Scientist from the Animal Nutrition Division, explained the importance of balanced feeding, including green fodder, dry fodder and concentrated feed, to improve livestock productivity and health. R. L. Sagar, Subject Matter Specialist at IVRI-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, guided farmers on fodder crop cultivation, year-round fodder availability and fodder preservation techniques such as silage and hay.
Other experts including Ranjit Singh discussed horticulture management practices, while Durga Dutt Sharma shared insights on modern fish farming techniques, pond management and improving fish production as an additional income source for farmers.
To encourage active participation, a quiz competition on livestock management, animal health, nutrition and agriculture was also organised. Winners were honoured with prizes and certificates.
A total of 274 stakeholders, including farmers, livestock rearers, rural youth and women farmers, participated in the programme. Notably, 145 participants were women, accounting for over 52 percent of the attendees, reflecting strong participation of women in the event.
The programme was coordinated by Madan Singh, Scientist in the Extension Education Division, under the guidance of H. R. Meena, Head of the Department of Extension Education. Other officials including R. S. Suman and Veer Singh, along with IVRI staff members, were also present.
Farmers described the event as highly beneficial, stating that such programmes help them gain direct access to scientific knowledge, government schemes and modern farming practices. They also expressed hope that similar farmer fairs and training programmes would be organised regularly in the future.
