The integration of information technology into the agricultural sector has been a game-changer, empowering farmers with knowledge and tools to enhance their productivity and efficiency. The Indian Government, in partnership with various agencies, has launched several digital initiatives to provide farmers with technological access and solutions. Here are the top 10 digital initiatives that are proving to be beneficial for farmers:
1. National e-Governance Plan in Agriculture (NeGP-A): Under this initiative, the government is funding state projects involving advanced technologies to provide farmers with access to crucial information, credit, insurance services, and market intelligence.
2. Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for Agriculture: The DPI for agriculture aims to establish an open-source, interoperable digital infrastructure to offer various services like crop planning, resource access, credit, and insurance services, and market intelligence.
3. Digital Crop Survey: A trial implementation of the Digital Crop Survey has been initiated in 12 states to create a registry of crop sown. This initiative aims to enhance data collection and analysis to support farmers’ decision-making.
4. Pixxel Space India Pvt. Limited Partnership: The government has collaborated with Pixxel Space India Pvt. Limited to develop practical applications using hyperspectral data. These applications include crop identification, monitoring crop health, and estimating soil organic carbon.
5. Sub Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM): This initiative focuses on promoting farm mechanization among small and marginal farmers. It establishes ‘Custom Hiring Centers’ and facilitates the distribution of agricultural machinery to enhance productivity.
6. National Agriculture Market (e-NAM): e-NAM is an electronic trading platform connecting Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) mandis to create a unified national market. It streamlines trading processes and benefits traders, farmers, and Farmer’s Producer Organizations.
7. PM KISAN Scheme: Through direct benefit transfers, the PM KISAN Scheme transfers funds to eligible farmers’ bank accounts. The scheme is now accessible through the PM-KISAN Mobile App, offering easy access to beneficiary information.
8. Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF): AIF provides medium to long-term debt financing opportunities for post-harvest management infrastructure projects. It offers interest subvention and credit guarantee to enhance agricultural infrastructure.
9. National Mission on Horticulture: The HORTNET project introduces a web-based system for financial assistance under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH). It emphasizes e-Governance and transparency in workflow processes.
10. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana: This scheme incorporates technology-driven measures like the Yield Estimation System based on Technology (YES-Tech), the Weather Information Network Data Systems (WINDS) portal, and the AIDE app for easy enrolment.
Apart from these initiatives, various mobile apps and digital platforms developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) provide farmers with information on recommended practices, market prices, weather updates, advisory services, and more. These initiatives collectively empower farmers with the resources they need to make informed decisions, increase productivity, and improve their overall livelihoods.
