Patna, Aug. 10: Bihar farmers will soon visit China to understand agricultural methods followed there for better yield here. Chief minister Nitish Kumar announced this while inaugurating the four-day horticulture festival at Samvat.

Referring to his China visit, Nitish said: “When I visited China, I was very impressed by the agricultural growth in Sandog province. They are doing an excellent job in the field of agriculture. I was told that they produced as many as 22 kinds of vegetables not only for their own country but also for export to other countries.”

Pointing to agriculture minister Narendra Singh, who was present at the inaugural function, Nitish said: “Narendraji, I want you to take the decision and send a team of farmers from Bihar to China to understand the techniques of China in the field of agriculture. We will take care of all expenses of the tour and you decide and let me know.”

He also said: “When our farmers visit China to understand their way of techniques, they will learn many ways of agriculture production and will be used as resource persons. Once they come back from China, they will be sent to villages to share their experiences. They can give a lot of information and knowledge to other farmers too.”

Kumar added: “This practice will surely help our farmers because 88 per cent of the total population in the state lives in rural areas and agriculture is the primary source for their livelihood. So, the dream of development of agriculture in Bihar will be only possible when we ensure progress of farmers and promote their income.”

Citing the example of bringing inclusive growth to the state, he said development is taking place in Bihar but still it is considered as a backward state.

Without taking the name of RJD chief Lalu Prasad, Nitish said: “Bihar is developing now and people are coming to the state but there are some people who are jealous of the development and keep on criticising us. But we shall not take their comment seriously and shall avoid listening to them.”