Centre Unveils New Agri-Tech Schemes for Higher Productivity
The Centre has introduced various important schemes aimed at upgrading agricultural technology, with an emphasis on boosting productivity, sustainability, and farmers’ income. These initiatives integrate digital technologies, contemporary farming methods, and effective resource management to improve agricultural output while maintaining environmental sustainability.
Key Government Initiatives
1. Digital Agriculture Mission
- Uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, and geospatial technology for,
- Better crop monitoring
- Soil management
- Weather forecasting
2. Crop Improvement & Agricultural Research
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed 2,900 crop varieties in the last decade.
- 2,661 varieties are resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses (diseases, pests, drought, etc.).
- 156 new technologies/machines introduced for production and post-harvest processing.
3. Technological Advancements in Animal & Fisheries Sector
- Development of advanced diagnostics, vaccines, and processing methods.
- Enhancing animal productivity, aquaculture efficiency, and fish health management.
4. Farmer Training& Awareness
- Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and State Agricultural Universities (SAUs) conduct,
- Training sessions for farmers
- Field demonstrations
- Skill development programs to improve farm efficiency
5. Agricultural Marketing & Market Access
- e-NAM (National Agricultural Market) for better price discovery & transparency.
- Kisan Rail & Kisan Udan for faster transportation of farm produce.
- Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) to reduce intermediaries and enhance farmers’ profits.
- Promotion of Agri-tech startups and digital platforms like AGRI-Bazaar for direct farmer-buyer connections.
6. Sustainable Farming & Soil Health Management
- Soil Health Card Scheme promotes balanced fertilizer use.
- ICAR-recommended soil test-based nutrient management for:
- Reduced chemical fertilizer dependency
- Improved soil health
- Micro-irrigation & efficient irrigation methods under Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) scheme for water conservation.
7. Value Addition & Agri-Processing
- Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana focuses on:
- Value-added processing of farm products
- Enhancing shelf life
- Linking farmers with agro-industries