I. Introduction
On January 15, 2025, the Divyayan Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Morabadi, Ranchi, in collaboration with the Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute and 18 Vivekananda Seva Sanghs of Bero Block, Dt. Ranchi, organized a one-day Shri Ramkrishna Kisan Mela at Lamkana village, Bedo. The fair, themed on “Income Generation through Natural Resource Management,” was successfully conducted with financial support from the Biotechnology Institute, Ranchi, Divyayan Krishi Vigyan Kendra, and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India.
II. Theme and Objectives
The Shri Ramkrishna Kisan Mela 2025 focused on “Income Generation through Natural Resource Management.” This theme aimed to:
- Promote sustainable agricultural practices: Encourage farmers to adopt eco-friendly methods like organic farming, water conservation, and integrated pest management.
- Enhance farmers’ income: Equip farmers with knowledge and skills to increase their productivity and market their produce effectively.
- Diversify income sources: Explore alternative income-generating activities like agroforestry, livestock rearing, and value addition to agricultural products.
- Empower rural communities: Foster a sense of community among farmers and provide them with a platform to share knowledge and experiences.
III. Inaugural Ceremony
The mela commenced with a traditional ceremony paying homage to Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa, Maa Sarada, and Swami Vivekananda through Vedic chants and floral offerings. Dr. Rajesh Kumar, in his welcome address, highlighted the ongoing agricultural activities of the Divyayan Krishi Vigyan Kendra in the Bedo block. He emphasized the importance of proper natural resource management and discussed techniques for honeybee farming and organic cultivation.
Shri Rahul Uraon, Block Development Officer, Bedo, addressed the gathering, encouraging farmers to avail themselves of various government schemes and to embrace the philosophy of Swami Vivekananda in their lives. Shri Pratap Minj, representing the institute, stressed the importance of adopting new agricultural technologies to enhance farmers’ entrepreneurial skills. Shri Manoj Prabhakar, Director of the Better World Foundation, shed light on market linkages for agricultural produce, emphasizing the need for fair prices for farmers’ products.
Swami Bhaveshananda, Secretary of the Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, delivered the presidential address. He urged farmers to embrace organic and natural farming practices for sustainable resource management. Emphasizing the importance of education and values, Swami Ji highlighted the Ramakrishna Mission’s efforts in providing quality education to children. He concluded by imparting the “Naam, Kaam, and Daan” (reputation, work, and charity) mantra to all the farmers, children, and women present at the mela.
IV. Key Speakers and Their Contributions
- Dr. Rajesh Kumar: Emphasized sustainable agricultural practices, particularly honeybee farming and organic cultivation.
- Shri Rahul Uraon: Encouraged farmers to utilize government schemes and adopt the philosophy of Swami Vivekananda.
- Shri Pratap Minj: Stressed the importance of adopting new agricultural technologies for increased income.
- Shri Manoj Prabhakar: Highlighted the importance of market linkages and fair pricing for farmers’ produce.
- Swami Bhaveshananda: Advocated for organic and natural farming, emphasizing the importance of education and values.
V. Activities and Demonstrations
The mela was a vibrant showcase of agricultural knowledge and innovation:
- Competitions and Awards: 200 crops and 73 livestock were registered for the competition. 80 farmers were awarded prizes for their outstanding achievements. Shri Agnu Uraon, Lamkana, Bedo, was recognized as the “Best Farmer” with an annual income of Rs. 9.5 lakhs.
- Cultural Performances: Children from the Akhandananda Shiksha Sanskar presented captivating dance, music, and yoga performances.
- Exhibitions and Demonstrations:
- The Divyayan Krishi Vigyan Kendra showcased various income-generating ventures based on natural resource management through interactive stalls.
- The RKMVERI displayed models of various agricultural technologies.
VI. Participation and Impact
The mela witnessed enthusiastic participation from the local community, with approximately 1500 farmers, along with other attendees, gracing the occasion. The event provided a valuable platform for:
- Knowledge dissemination: Farmers gained valuable insights into sustainable agricultural practices, market linkages, and government schemes.
- Skill enhancement: Hands-on demonstrations and workshops equipped farmers with practical skills in various areas of agriculture.
- Community building: The mela fostered a sense of community among farmers and encouraged knowledge sharing.
VII. Conclusion
The Shri Ramkrishna Kisan Mela 2025 proved to be a resounding success, effectively promoting sustainable agriculture and empowering the rural community. The event served as a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, skill development, and community building. By focusing on natural resource management and income generation, the mela contributed significantly towards improving the livelihoods of farmers in the Bero region.
