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E-technology in the aid of farmers

Last updated on October 10, 2023 by ClearIAS Team

Agriculture is a crucial sector and E-technology in aid of the farmers is trying to enhance the sector. Read here to know more.

Indian Agriculture is a core sector for food security and sustainable development along with poverty alleviation.

Indian farming sector is dominated by small and marginal farmers and increasing their productivity and incomes can make a major contribution to economic advancement while reducing hunger and poverty.

There have been many efforts over the decades to enhance the farming sector on-field by introducing the Green revolution , Blue revolution , White revolution , yellow revolution , etc. Most recently, Biotechnology and Information and communication technology are revolutionizing the sector.

However, the technological changes in Indian agriculture started in the 1960s when access to modern inputs, especially a high-yielding variety of seeds, fertilizers, mechanization, credit, and marketing facilities improved. The central government also introduced an intensive area development program in 1960.

Also read: Urban Agriculture

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E-technology in aid of farmers

E-technology stands for Electronic Technology. This includes the internet and related information technologies, and digital technologies, used of which have grown rapidly in recent years in all fields.

The impact of information and communication technology in agriculture can be evaluated broadly under two categories.

• First, Information technology is a tool for direct contribution to agricultural productivity.
• Secondly, as an indirect tool for empowering agriculturalists to make informed and quality decisions, it will have a positive impact on the agriculture and allied activities conducted.

Agricultural biotech and InfoTech together are helping to create new tools to-

• tackle the problem of consistent rural poverty
• generate employment,
• increase farm productivity and production,
• improve quality and marketing

Beneficial outcomes of e-Agriculture which enhance the quality of life of farmers include-

• bridging the information gap between the farmers and
• building a productive and competitive market,
• Different IT interventions support rural and under-developed markets to become efficient and pesticides.
• Farm animals are fed and monitored by electronic sensors and identification systems.
• Access to price information, access to agriculture information, access to national and international markets,
• Increasing production efficiency and so on.

Advantages of E-technology in aid of farmers

Some of the benefits derived by the farmers through ICT are given below:

• Improved decision making: By having the necessary information, farmers make improved decisions concerning their agricultural activities. The exchange of knowledge from various countries and organizations also helps farmers be more aware of factors to consider before making their decisions.
• Planning: IT has paved the way to come up with farming software that determines the best aids to use on the farm. Gaining information from their farm is essential in sustaining growth.
• Community participation: When a community adopts modern methods for agriculture, the production of local goods can be increased. With IT, there can be an improved union among local farmers, leading to better income for everyone involved.
• Agricultural innovations: When scientists develop new and improved techniques that help grow crops in adversities, a connected agricultural world will promote better reach.
• Better outreach: Not only small and medium farmers, but even backyard farmers also play a role in promoting agriculture. USe of e-technology will help in spreading ideas and innovations to all levels of farming sects.

Along with the advantages, e-agriculture has lots of problems like technical feasibility of connectivity in rural areas, cost involved in ensuring services, need for basic computer literacy, etc. Some of those problems are:-

• The reach of the technology is still very poor and a large number of farmers are still ignorant about such advancements.
• The distribution of technologies is not uniform throughout the country.
• The use of technology is being used by the already big-scale farmers is pushing the wealth gap wider. The small and marginal farmers are again being left out in the process of development.
• Due to the low literacy rate among farmers and the digital divide, there is a rise of a new class of middlemen, who provide ICT services to farmers.
• The rural infrastructure for the use of ICT is also not uniform and a lot of regional disparity persists.

Initiatives by the Central Government for promoting E-technology in aid of farmers

There are many initiatives of the Central Government integrating electronic technology and farming.

National Agriculture Market

• The National Agriculture Market (NAM) is a pan-India electronic trading portal that seeks to network the existing APMC and other market yards to create a unified national market for agricultural commodities.
• NAM is a “virtual” market, but it has a physical market at the backend.
• NAM was announced during the Budget of 2014-15 and is proposed to be achieved through the setting up of a common e-platform to which initially 585 APMCs selected by the states are linked. NAM was launched on 14 April 2016 with 21 mandis from 8 States joining it and the first phase of connecting 250 mandis was over on 6 October 2016.
• NAM is implemented as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme through Agri-Tech Infrastructure Fund (ATIF) . The Department of Agriculture & Cooperation (DAC), Ministry of Agriculture will set it up through the Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC).
• Agricultural Marketing Information Network (AGMARKNET) was launched in 2000 by the Union Ministry of Agriculture.
• This e-governance portal AGMARKNET, implemented by National Informatics Centre (NIC), facilitates the generation and transmission of prices, commodity arrival information from agricultural produce markets, and web-based dissemination to producers, consumers, traders, and policymakers transparently and quickly.
• An initiative by ITC provides alternative marketing channels, information on weather, agricultural practices, input sales, etc.
• It is a kiosk located in a village and equipped with computer and internet access, which is managed by a trained sanchalak.

Direct benefit transfer (DBT) Central Agri Portal

• Launched in 2013, the DBT Agri Portal is a unified central portal for agricultural schemes across the country
• The portal helps farmers adopt modern farm machinery through government subsidies.

Village Resource Centres

• Village Resource Centres provide space-based services in rural areas.
• They are one of the unique initiatives that use the Satellite Communication (SATCOM) network and Earth Observation (EO) satellite data to reach out to the villages to address the needs of the local people in the villages themselves.

Digital Agriculture Mission

• The Digital Agriculture Mission (2021–2025) aims to support and accelerate projects based on new technologies, like AI , blockchain , remote sensing, and GIS technology, and the use of drones and robots

Unified Farmer Service Platform (UFSP):

• UFSP is a combination of Core Infrastructure, Data, Applications, and Tools that enable seamless interoperability of various public and private IT systems in the agriculture ecosystem across the country. UFSP is envisaged to play the following role:
• Act as a central agency in the Agri ecosystem (like UPI in the e-Payments)
• Enables Registration of the Service Providers (public and private) and the Farmer Services.
• Enforces various rules and validations required during the service delivery process.
• Acts as a Repository of all the applicable standards, APIs (Application Programming Interface), and formats.
• Act as a medium of data exchange amongst various schemes and services to enable comprehensive delivery of services to the farmer
• The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has planned to create ‘AgriStack’ – a collection of technology-based interventions in agriculture.
• It will create a unified platform for farmers to provide them with end-to-end services across the agricultural food value chain.

Sandesh Pathak

• The Sandesh Pathak application was developed jointly by C-DAC Mumbai, IIT-Madras, IIIT Hyderabad, IIT Kharagpur, and C-DAC Thiruvananthapuram will enable SMS messages to be read out loud, for the benefit of farmers who may have difficulty in reading.

State-level initiatives connected with Electronic Technology and Farmers

There are many programs in different states which integrates e-technology with agricultural practices. Some of them are:

• eSagu provides personalized expert advice promptly from the sowing stage to harvest for small and marginal farmers at their doorstep.
• The farm situation is brought to the expert in the form of digital photographs and text information.
• The expert advice after analyzing the situation is prepared and is delivered to the concerned farmer on the same day or subsequent day.
• Sagu means cultivation in the Telugu-local language of Telangana Andhra Pradesh, the region in which the project started.
• The AGRISNET project was conceptualized with the vision of creating an interconnected technology-enabled network to deliver informational services effectively to the farming community.
• The project aimed to integrate cross-functional processes of the Department of Agriculture in Tamilnadu, to effectively and efficiently communicate informational services to the farming community.

Jio Agri(JioKrishi) Platform

• A pilot project was initiated at Jalna and Nashik, Maharashtra in 2020.
• It digitizes the agricultural ecosystem along the entire value chain to empower farmers
• The core function of the platform uses stand-alone application data to provide advisory, the advanced functions use data from various sources, feed the data into AI/ML algorithms, and provide accurate personalized advice.

The Indian agriculture sector has still not been able to overcome the digital divide that is prevalent for so many years in rural development scenarios. Hence, it is high time to fill the digital gap for farmers.

It is important to adopt a holistic approach to address the challenges faced by Indian agriculture to achieve inclusive growth and sustainable development.

The use of e-technology like remote sensing, and GIS, will enable wide-scale adoption of digital agriculture, ease of access and operations, and easy maintenance of systems with supportive government policies.

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Technology Mission in Agriculture

• 1 What are Technology Missions?
• 2 Technology Missions in Agriculture
• 3 How have Technology Missions benefitted Agriculture?
• 4 Reasons for the limited success of Technology Missions
• 5 Way Forward

What are Technology Missions?

Technology Missions are focussed initiatives to drive attention towards developing a particular field. Integration of modern technology plays a crucial role in Technology Missions.

Technology Mission have clearly defined objectives, scope and implementation of timelines. They are also characterised by measurable outcomes and service levels with the help of technological advancements in a particular assigned sector.

In 1987, Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi along with his advisor Sam Pitroda initiated Technology Missions. The initial Technological Mission would focus on five critical areas which included

• Drinking water
• Immunization
• Telecommunications.

Technology Missions in Agriculture

1. Technology Mission on Oilseeds, Pulses, and Maize (TMOPM)

• This mission was launched in India in 1986 with the aim of increasing the production of oilseeds, pulses, and maize to reduce the country’s dependence on imports of edible oils and meet the growing demand for food.
• Increase production and productivity of oilseeds, pulses, and maize through the use of modern technologies and better farm practices.
• Increase the availability of quality seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides to farmers at affordable prices.
• Develop post-harvest technologies to reduce losses and increase the shelf life of produce.
• Promote research and development in the field of oilseeds, pulses, and maize to improve their quality and yield.

2. National Mission on Oilseeds and Oil Palm (NMOOP)

• National Oilseeds Mission (NOM) in 1986 with the goal of increasing the production of oilseeds in India. The mission was later restructured as the National Mission on Oilseeds and Oil Palm (NMOOP) in 2014 with the addition of oil palm cultivation to its objectives.
• Increase oilseed production to reduce the dependence on imports of edible oils and to meet the growing demand for edible oils in the country.
• Increase the productivity of oilseeds through the adoption of modern technologies, better farm practices, and the development of high-yielding varieties.
• Develop post-harvest technologies to reduce losses and increase the shelf life of oilseeds and oil palm fruits.
• Promote research and development in the field of oilseeds and oil palm to improve their quality and yield.

3. National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA)

• NMSA is a centrally sponsored scheme launched by the Government of India in 2010 with the aim of promoting sustainable agriculture practices and increasing the resilience of agriculture to climate change.
• Increase the productivity of crops while ensuring the sustainability of natural resources.
• Promote climate-resilient agriculture practices that help farmers adapt to the impacts of climate change.
• Promote soil health management through the adoption of integrated nutrient management, organic farming, and conservation agriculture practices.
• Develop value chains for agricultural products to increase farmers’ income and promote sustainable agriculture practices.

4. National Livestock Mission

• It is a central government initiative launched in 2014 with the objective of improving livestock productivity, increasing the income of livestock farmers, and promoting sustainable development of the livestock sector in India.
• Livestock development: The mission aims to promote the adoption of modern technologies for livestock rearing, breeding, and disease control, and increase the availability of quality feed and fodder.
• Livestock health: The mission seeks to improve animal health by promoting vaccination, disease surveillance, and control measures, and establishing veterinary hospitals and clinics in remote areas.
• Capacity building: The mission aims to train farmers and livestock service providers in modern livestock management practices, veterinary care, and entrepreneurship.
• Market access: The mission seeks to promote market-led livestock development by establishing market infrastructure, linking farmers to markets, and promoting value-added livestock products.

5. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture 

• It is a centrally sponsored scheme launched by the Government of India in 2014 with the aim of promoting holistic growth of the horticulture sector in the country.
• Enhance horticulture production and productivity to meet the growing demand for fruits, vegetables, and flowers in the country.
• Promote diversification of crops to increase farmers’ income and reduce the risk of crop failure.
• Promote post-harvest management and value addition to reduce losses and increase income for farmers.
• Promote export of horticultural produce to generate foreign exchange and increase farmers’ income.
• Develop infrastructure for the development of the horticulture sector, including cold storage facilities, packhouses, and market linkages.
• Promote capacity building and entrepreneurship in the horticulture sector.

6. National Mission on Food Processing (NMFP)

• It is a centrally sponsored scheme launched by the Government of India in 2014 with the aim of promoting the development of the food processing industry in the country.
• Increase the value addition to agricultural and horticultural produce
• through the development of the food processing industry.
• Create employment opportunities in the food processing industry, particularly in rural areas.
• Promote the development of modern and efficient food processing infrastructure, including cold chain, storage, and transportation facilities.
• Promote research and development in the food processing industry to improve the quality and safety of processed food.
• Promote the export of processed food products to generate foreign exchange.

7. Technology Mission on Cotton

• The Technology Mission on Cotton (TMC) is a centrally sponsored scheme launched by the Government of India in 2000 with the aim of promoting sustainable and profitable cotton cultivation in the country.
• Increase the productivity and profitability of cotton cultivation.
• Promote the adoption of sustainable and eco-friendly cotton cultivation practices.
• Promote research and development in the cotton sector to improve the quality and yield of cotton.
• Promote capacity building and entrepreneurship in the cotton sector.

8. Jute Technology Mission

• The Jute Technology Mission (JTM) is a centrally sponsored scheme launched by the Government of India in 2015 with the aim of promoting the jute sector in the country.
• Increase the productivity and quality of raw jute through the adoption of modern jute cultivation practices.
• Promote research and development in the jute sector to improve the quality and value of jute products.
• Promote capacity building and entrepreneurship in the jute sector.
• Promote the use of jute as an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic materials.

9. Technology Mission on Coconut 

• The Technology Mission on Coconut (TMC) is a centrally sponsored scheme launched by the Government of India in 2014 with the aim of promoting sustainable and profitable coconut cultivation in the country.
• Increase the productivity and profitability of coconut cultivation.
• Promote the adoption of sustainable and eco-friendly coconut cultivation practices.
• Promote research and development in the coconut sector to improve the quality and yield of coconut.
• Promote capacity building and entrepreneurship in the coconut sector.

10. National Saffron Mission

• The National Saffron Mission (NSM) is a centrally sponsored scheme launched by the Government of India in 2010 with the aim of promoting the cultivation of saffron in the country.
• Increase the production and productivity of saffron in the country.
• Promote the adoption of improved cultivation practices for saffron.
• Promote the conservation and sustainable use of saffron genetic resources.
• Promote capacity building and entrepreneurship in the saffron sector.

How have Technology Missions benefitted Agriculture?

• First , productivity has increased as a result of the adoption of cutting-edge technologies by farmers thanks to technological missions. This has aided in supplying the nation’s rising food needs.
• Second , the missions have concentrated on enhancing the quality of agricultural products, which will raise farmers’ profitability. Additionally, this has improved the ability of Indian agricultural products to be exported.
• Third , agriculture that is environmentally friendly and sustainable has been encouraged by technology missions. As a result, less toxic chemicals are now used in agriculture and natural resources like soil and water are being conserved.
• Fourth , the missions have emphasised entrepreneurship and capacity building in the agricultural industry, which has resulted in the establishment of new job possibilities and raised farmer incomes.
• Fifth , due to the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) for the first the total production of agricultural crops has surpassed the food grain production.
• Sixth , these technology missions have helped India to enter foreign markets and as a result helped in increasing India’s agricultural export to other countries. e.g Indian Saffron sales have increased in West Asia and Europe.

Reasons for the limited success of Technology Missions

• In India still, there is a gap between farm and lab. Farmers are still not aware of the modern technologies in agriculture as well as various initiatives taken by the government.
• Most of the Missions focussed on specialisation and lacked integration of SHG, NGOs and Panchayati Raj Institutions in the implementation of various programs.
• Small and Marginal farmers are financially constrained as a result they fail to fully take advantage of the benefits offered by these technology missions.
• Inadequate Infrastructure has seriously constrained the efficacy of these technology missions. Lack of availability of Cold Storage has discouraged farmers from growing perishable items like fruits and vegetables.

Way Forward

First , encourage the implementation of digital technologies like blockchain, big data analytics, artificial intelligence, and precision agriculture in order to maximise resource utilisation, improve crop yields, and cut down on waste.

Second , empower smallholder farmers by creating and implementing cutting-edge technology that address the particular difficulties they encounter, such as gaining access to loans, markets, and information.

Third , improve soil health by concentrating on technologies like crop rotation, cover crops, soil testing, and organic agricultural methods. This will increase the agricultural system’s resistance to climate change, increase crop yields, and lower input costs.

Fourth , encourage cooperation between the public and private sectors and between research institutes in order to co-create and commercialise cutting-edge technologies that cater to the needs of farmers.

Fifth , promote capacity building by investing in programmes that give farmers, extension agents, and other stakeholders the skills and information they need to adopt and utilise new technology.

Last , focus on sustainability,create and spread technologies that aid in integrated pest control, conservation agriculture, and agroforestry, among other sustainable agricultural practises.

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E-Technology in agriculture

E-Technology in the aid of Farmers

The prime minister's vision 

Modernisation in the field of agriculture is the need of hour. This decade could be the best time for a multitude of factors including the futuristic vision for agriculture at Apex level in the government of India.

e-agriculture involves designing, developing and applying innovative ways to use information and communication technologies (ICTs) with a primary focus on agriculture. ICTs that can be harnessed for e-agriculture may include devices, networks, services and applications. 

Role of ICT in agriculture:

Initiatives taken in India to promote ICT in agriculture:

• Agricultural extension and advisory service: IFFCO Kissan Sanchar Limited (IKSL) offers the farmer access to a unique Value-Added Service (VAS) platform that will broadcast five free voice messages, based on farmers’ requirements, on market prices, farming techniques, weather forecasts, dairy farming, animal husbandry, rural health initiatives and fertilizer availability etc. on a daily basis.
• National e-Governance Plan in Agriculture (NeGPA): For rapid deployment of ICT in agriculture. Some initiatives include one Stop Window Farmers Portal for dissemination of information on various agricultural related matters
• Strengthening/Promoting Agricultural Information System (AGRISNET): It is the scheme for strengthening of IT infrastructure of the Department and its offices.
• Development of Android Apps: 
• KISAN SUVIDHA: Weather related information
• PUSA KRISHI APP: solutions to problems of agriculture.
• KISAN CALL CENTRES: To address the queries of famers on a telephone call in their local dialect.
• Sandesh Pathak- The application, developed jointly by C-DAC Mumbai, IIT Madras, IIT Hyderabad, IIT Kharagpur, and C-DAC Thiruvananthapuram will enable SMS messages to be read out loud, for the benefit of farmers who may have difficulty in reading.

Issues and challenges:

• Low-cost technology: Lowering the cost of technology so that it is available and affordable for the smaller farmers. 
• Easily portable hardware: Plug and play hardware (ensuring mobility) has better chances of succeeding in India due to small farm sizes and prevalence of tenancy.
• Renting and sharing platforms for agriculture equipment and machinery: Due to both limited financial resources and small farm plots, renting and sharing platforms rather than outright purchase for ICT equipment.
• Bridging the Digital Divide between the rural and urban India as well as among different sections of rural society.
• Localization of data and applications: Information in local languages and customized inputs will help in rapid dissemination of technology.

Conclusion: Digital Agriculture can improve information access and knowledge sharing for farmers and agrarians. Technology affordability, ease of access and operation, system maintenance, timely grievance redressal, and policy support should underpin the initiatives.

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Role Of E-Technology In Agriculture

Digital Technologies such as ICT, Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, IoT etc. can play a transformative role in modernising agriculture, make it more Industrialised and usher in constructive disruption.

The Government has adopted number of digital initiatives such as  E-NAM, AGMARKNET, ATMA, Kisan Call Centres, Kisan Suvidha app  etc. These  initiatives can reduce the input costs, enhance productivity and increase prices received by farmers. 

However, adoption of digital technologies faces multi-faceted challenges:

• Fragmented landholdings  reduce the scope of technology scale up, leading to poor cost effectiveness.
• Poor affordability : High-priced technology is unaffordable for small and marginal farmers.
• Long gestation period : Adoption and penetration of technology is slow process.
• Lack of enabling policy : Adoption of technologies through subsidy is yet to gain momentum.
• Poor skill sets  among the farmers make adoption of technologies difficult.
• Other reasons include  poor extension, lack of access to credit, poor internet penetration  etc.

The Dalwai panel has highlighted Digital technologies as the key enabler for doubling Income levels of the farmers. Going forward, these constraints and challenges should be addressed at the earliest so that Agriculture sector reaps the benefits of ICT.

ROLE OF AGRITECH

Agritech is the use of technology in agriculture, horticulture, and aquaculture with the aim of improving yield, efficiency, and profitability. Agritech can be products, services or applications derived from agriculture that improve various input/output processes. Examples include Mobile applications, weather forecasts, drones, Use of ICT in agriculture etc.

According to NASSCOM, Agritech can bring in innovation in agriculture leading to its comprehensive transformation:

• Access to Inputs : E-commerce Mobile apps provide farmers with access to agricultural inputs at doorsteps. Farmers would also understand best input product to increase yield. Example: BharatRohan 
• Increased Mechanisation  through Uber-like apps such as Goldfarm
• Access to Loans  through apps such as  JaiKisan.
• Resource Maximization :  IoT based platforms such as Fasal use AI and Big data to optimally utilise water, fertilisers etc.
• Enhancing Productivity : NITI Aayog’s pilot project on Precision Agriculture using AI for increasing crop productivity.
• Agricultural Marketing  : Apps such as Ninjacart would streamline supply chain by connecting farmers directly with customers.

Keeping in mind these advantages, states such as Maharashtra and Karnataka have set up separate funds to boost agritech sector. There is a need to upscale these efforts at national level to optimally harness agritech.

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E- Technology in Agriculture

Published: 29th Dec, 2022

Digital technologies are finding increasing use in the agriculture, and farmers are increasingly becoming more informed, as various measures are taken to provide them ready access to technology and information.

Indian Agriculture:

• Agriculture in India is the core sector for food security, nutritional security, and sustainable development and for poverty alleviation.
• The future of agriculture growth and food security in India depends on the performance of small and marginal farmers.
• Technology here plays a vital role to enhance productivity sustainably. Innovation mechanisms for technology transfer are required to bring relevant tools, knowledge and knowhow to farmers.

Importance of Agricultural Technology

• Higher crop productivity
• Decreased use of water, fertilizer, and pesticides, which in turn keeps food prices down
• Reduced impact on natural ecosystems
• Less runoff of chemicals into rivers and groundwater
• Increased worker safety

Role of Robotic Technologies

• It enables more reliable monitoring and management of natural resources, such as air and water quality.
• Greater efficiencies and lower prices
• Safer growing conditions and safer foods
• Reduced environmental and ecological impact

Emerging Agriculture Technologies

• This information can be used to determine when to water and fertilize rather than rely on a predetermined schedule.
• It helps in conserving water, limiting erosion and reducing fertilizer levels in local rivers and lakes.
• Drones, remote sensors, and satellites gather 24/7 data on weather patterns in and around the fields
• This provides farmers with vital information on temperature, rainfall, soil, humidity.
• Farmers can get advanced notice of frost, hail and other weather that they can take precautions to protect the crops.
• Reviewing images on a weekly basis can save a farm a considerable amount of time and money.
• Examples include autonomous vehicles controlled by robotics.
• It expands accurate and controlled growing through proper guidance to farmers about optimum planting, timely harvesting, nutrient management and pest attacks.
• In this, the plant’s original chromosomes are not altered in any way.
• For example, barcode on the yields can be scanned with a smartphone in order to access information about the soil that yielded them.

• Farmers in all areas can use it to make better use of available land and to grow crops that wouldn’t normally be viable in those locations.
• Blockchain in Agriculture: Blockchain technologies can track all types of information about plants, such as seed quality, and crop growth, and even generate a record of the journey of the plant after it leaves the farm.
• Internet of Things (IOT): The buzz word in precision farming lately has been IOT. In IoT-based smart farming, a system is built for monitoring the crop field with the help of sensors (light, humidity, temperature, soil moisture, etc.) and automating the irrigation system.
• Drone Technology: Drones can help in the analysis of soils and drainage, crop health assessment and are being used in variable rate application of liquid pesticides, fertilisers and herbicides.

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Model Answers

Q: Discuss the role of technology in agrarian change in India.

Question asked in UPSC Sociology 2021 Paper 2. Download our app for last 20 year question with model answers.

Model Answer:

Role of Technology in Agrarian Change in India

Technology has revolutionized the agricultural sector in India, bringing about significant changes in the way farming is done and impacting the lives of millions of farmers. The introduction of modern agricultural technologies, such as advanced machinery, precision farming techniques, and genetically modified crops, has led to a substantial increase in productivity and efficiency. Additionally, the development of improved crop varieties and better resource management practices has helped farmers to achieve higher yields and better quality produce.

However, the adoption of new technologies has also brought about a range of social, economic, and environmental challenges that need to be carefully addressed. 

1. Green Revolution

The Green Revolution in the 1960s and 1970s was a turning point in Indian agriculture. It involved the introduction of high-yielding varieties of seeds, chemical fertilizers, and pesticides, along with modern irrigation techniques. This led to a significant increase in food production, making India self-sufficient in food grains. However, the Green Revolution also had negative consequences, such as soil degradation, groundwater depletion, and increased income inequality among farmers.

2. Mechanization

The use of modern machinery, such as tractors, harvesters, and threshers, has increased efficiency and reduced the dependence on manual labor in Indian agriculture. Mechanization has also helped in reducing drudgery and increasing the area under cultivation. However, it has also led to the displacement of small and marginal farmers who cannot afford these technologies, leading to increased rural unemployment and migration to urban areas.

3. Irrigation

Technological advancements in irrigation, such as drip irrigation and sprinkler systems, have helped in the efficient use of water resources and increased agricultural productivity. However, the over-exploitation of groundwater resources has led to a decline in water tables, posing a threat to the sustainability of agriculture in many regions of India.

4. Biotechnology

The introduction of genetically modified (GM) crops has the potential to increase crop yields, improve resistance to pests and diseases, and enhance nutritional content. However, the adoption of GM crops in India has been a subject of debate, with concerns about their impact on biodiversity, human health, and the livelihoods of small farmers who may not be able to afford the expensive seeds and associated inputs.

5. Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

ICT has played a crucial role in disseminating information on weather, market prices, and government schemes to farmers, enabling them to make informed decisions. Mobile phones, internet, and satellite-based technologies have also facilitated precision farming, which helps in optimizing the use of resources and reducing the environmental impact of agriculture.

6. Market linkages

Technology has helped in connecting farmers to markets, both domestic and international, through online platforms and e-commerce. This has enabled farmers to access better prices for their produce and reduce their dependence on middlemen.

Despite the numerous benefits of technology in Indian agriculture, its adoption has been uneven, with large farmers benefiting more than small and marginal farmers. This has led to widening income disparities and social tensions in rural areas. Moreover, the overemphasis on technology-driven agricultural growth has often ignored the importance of traditional knowledge and sustainable farming practices.

In conclusion, technology has played a significant role in shaping agrarian change in India, contributing to increased productivity and food security. However, it has also raised concerns about environmental sustainability, social equity, and the preservation of traditional knowledge. To ensure that the benefits of technology are shared equitably, there is a need for inclusive policies that promote access to affordable technologies, capacity building, and the integration of traditional knowledge with modern scientific advancements.

More Questions:

Comment on the role of co-operatives in rural development., is indian society moving from “hierarchy” towards “differentiation” illustrate your answer with suitable examples., does “economic empowerment” automatically bring about “substantive empowerment” for women briefly describe the main issues in women empowerment in india..

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Editorial of the Day: Role of Technology in Agriculture (NITI Aayog)

Recently NITI Aayog released a report on “Building agritech ecosystem for the global south” that highlights the potential of agritech startups in transforming the agriculture sector and improving

Table of Contents

Context: Recently NITI Aayog released a report on “Building agritech ecosystem for the global south” that highlights the potential of agritech startups in transforming the agriculture sector and improving the livelihoods of farmers.

Role of Technology in Agriculture Background

Role of Technology in Agriculture:

The role of technology in agriculture has been crucial and has revolutionized the industry in many ways.

• Improved crop yields: Technology has enabled farmers to increase their yields by using advanced tools and techniques such as precision agriculture, which involves the use of sensors, drones, and GPS to monitor crop growth and optimize inputs such as water, fertilizer, and pesticides.
• Enhancing Crop Quality: Techniques such as Genetic engineering has made it possible to introduce certain strains into other genes of crops or animals. Such engineering boosts the resistance of the crops to pests (e.g. Bt Cotton) and droughts.
• Sustainable farming practices: Technology can help farmers adopt sustainable farming practices, reduce their carbon footprint, and prevent soil degradation. For example, precision agriculture can reduce the amount of chemicals needed to grow crops, while crop rotation and cover cropping can improve soil health.
• Efficient use of resources: Technology can help farmers make the most of their resources by reducing waste and improving efficiency. For example, using sensors to monitor soil moisture and weather conditions can help farmers optimize irrigation and reduce water usage.
• Smart supply chain management: Technology can help farmers connect with buyers and streamline their supply chains, reducing waste and improving profitability. For example, eNAM is an online platform that connects farmers with buyers, helping to reduce the role of intermediaries and improve transparency in pricing.
• Improved quality and safety: Technology can help farmers improve the quality and safety of their products by using tools such as computer vision and deep learning to monitor and grade produce.
• Additionally, technology can also provide farmers with access to information, resources, and markets. For example, mobile apps and online platforms can provide farmers with weather forecasts, market prices, and information on best farming practices.
• This can help them make informed decisions about their crops thereby preventing crop damage and failure.
• Prevents Rural Exodus: technology can also help to reduce the drudgery of farm work, making it more appealing to younger generations who may have otherwise sought employment in other sectors. This can help to retain young people in rural areas and prevent the rural exodus to urban areas.

Challenges in Deploying Technology in Indian Agriculture:

There have been several challenges in deploying technology in agriculture in India, including:

• Education and Training Related: The lack of knowledge and inadequate skills among farmers regarding the use of technology is a significant challenge.
• Technology and Infrastructure: Poor infrastructure, lack of storage, and inadequate transport facilities pose significant challenges in deploying technology in agriculture.
• Economic and Policy Issues: The lack of money, access to credit, and limited access to bank loans make it difficult for farmers to invest in new technologies. Additionally, government policies related to agricultural technology are not always supportive, which further limits the adoption of new technology.
• Climate vulnerability & Environmental Issues: India is vulnerable to climate change, and farmers face challenges related to poor soils, soil fertility, unreliable rainfall, and natural disasters such as floods, frost, and hailstorms. These challenges can limit the effectiveness of agricultural technologies.
• Psycho-Social Issues: Many workers have no interest in agriculture, and farm work is not always preferred over self-reliance projects or other types of work. Additionally, farm jobs are often time-consuming, which can make it difficult for farmers to adopt new technologies that require significant time investments.

Decoding the Editorial

Key Highlights of the Report:

Agritech Challenge:

• The report discusses the Agritech Challenge which is a collaborative initiative between the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) in India, and partner countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Kenya, Uganda, Malawi, and Zambia.
• It is aimed at promoting cross-border partnerships and knowledge sharing between agritech startups and incubators in different countries, primarily in emerging economies across Asia and Africa.
• The main objective of the challenge is to address developmental challenges in the agriculture sector, which is critical to the economies of these countries and employs a significant proportion of their population.
• It seeks to create opportunities for business collaborations and knowledge sharing, supported by sustainable investments.
• It aims to drive south-south collaboration by identifying three broad categories of challenges in the agriculture sector, namely low productivity, poor risk resilience, and inefficient supply chain , and seeks to support startups that offer solutions relevant to these challenges.
• The selected agritech startups will work to improve agriculture productivity, build resilience against climate change and natural hazard-induced shocks, and improve supply chain efficiency and transparency.

AgriTech Landscape in India:

• The agritech sector in India has been growing rapidly in recent years , driven by a combination of factors including increasing smartphone and internet penetration , rising agricultural productivity, and government initiatives to promote digital agriculture.
• According to a report by NASSCOM and Agribusiness Intelligence, the Indian agritech market was valued at USD 24 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach USD 30 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 12%.
• However, the market penetration of agritech in India is still relatively low, at around 1%, indicating significant untapped potential.
• The supply chain and farm management segments are expected to be the key drivers of growth in the Indian agritech landscape, with a focus on improving efficiency, reducing waste, and increasing profitability for farmers and other stakeholders.
• There are many agritech startups operating in India across various segments, including precision agriculture, supply chain management , farm management, and market linkages.
• Some of the notable players in the Indian agritech ecosystem include AgNext, Ninjacart, DeHaat, CropIn, and AgroStar, among others.
• The Indian government has also launched several initiatives to promote the growth of the agritech sector, such as the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, the eNAM platform for online trading of agricultural commodities, and the Kisan Credit Card scheme for farmers.

Challenges for Agritech Startups:

• High Cost of Infrastructure and Devices : The Agritech companies depend on agriculture infrastructure or tools like IoT devices, farm machinery, high-resolution satellite imageries, and IT infrastructure. However, all these infrastructures are costly and require substantial upfront investments. Therefore, the absence of such infrastructures prohibits the entry of the Agritech companies in those geographies or sub-sector.
• There has been a significant increase in mobile internet coverage, but the usage gap remains a challenge in the adoption of agritech solutions.
• The primary reason for the high usage gap in rural areas is that people are unaware of or understand the mobile internet and its benefits.
• The users also have a low level of literacy and digital skills.
• Other reasons are the affordability of a smartphone or service fees
• Connecting with farmers is a significant challenge for Agritech start-ups due to fragmented landholding, diverse geographies, and farmers’ trust issues.
• Farmers do not trust new companies and are averse to doing any transaction.
• The direct connection with the farmer is often the cheapest, but some farm-level issues do not support this model, so start-ups must depend on the B2B2C model.
• Most Agritech start-ups are data-driven and require the latest data to improve their software and effectively serve end-users.
• In the context of India, the largest repository of data is the government. These data are related to land records, weather data, crop yield, and price.
• However, there is inadequate farm and farmer-level data available, which hinders Agritech start-ups’ growth and development.

Recommendations:

The report recommends few steps to improve the scaling up of agritech start-ups and ensure food security:

• Improving last-mile connectivity: The government needs to build the capacity of local institutions like FPOs or cooperatives to ensure that all smallholders can benefit from the services and products of agritech start-ups.
• Access to public data: The government should ensure that agritech start-ups have access to quality data related to farmers, land records, financial health, weather reports, meteorological data, market, price, and mandi data.
• Promoting local level infrastructure for farm-level processing: The government should promote the creation of local agriculture-related infrastructures by incentivising and providing financing from formal financial institutions. It will boost the farmers’ income and ensure the scalability and sustainability of agritech start-ups.
• Digitalisation of licensing regime: Creating transparency around the licensing process by digitising the entire process will help agritech start-ups increase access to information to the smallholders.
• State-specific AgriTech policy to promote agriculture-based start-ups: A distinct agritech start-up policy will go a long way in promoting and facilitating many such start-ups. It will also help the government departments work around the issues related to sharing of data, usage of data, and privacy issues by the private firms.

Beyond the Editorial

Government Initiatives:

• AgriStack: The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has planned creating ‘AgriStack’ – a collection of technology-based interventions in agriculture.
• Digital Agriculture Mission: This has been initiated for 2021 -2025 by the government for projects based on new technologies like artificial intelligence, block chain, remote sensing and GIS technology, use of drones and robots etc.
• Unified Farmer Service Platform (UFSP): UFSP is a combination of Core Infrastructure, Data, Applications and Tools that enable seamless interoperability of various public and private IT systems in the agriculture ecosystem across the country.
• National e-Governance Plan in Agriculture (NeGP-A): A Centrally Sponsored Scheme, it was initially launched in 2010-11 in 7 pilot States, which aims to achieve rapid development in India through use of ICT for timely access to agriculture-related information to the farmers.
• Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM): Under this Scheme, subsidies are provided for the purchase of various types of agricultural equipment and machinery.
• Other Digital Initiatives: Kisan Call Centres, Kisan Suvidha App, Agri Market App, Soil Health Card (SHC) Portal, etc.

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Modern Agricultural Practices – Precision Farming, Protected Cultivation of Horticulture Crops – UPSC Environment Notes

• Modern agriculture represents an evolving paradigm of agricultural advancements and farming methodologies aimed at enhancing efficiency while minimizing the utilization of natural resources such as water, land, and energy to meet global demands for food, fuel, and fiber. 
• It is also known by various other terms such as agribusiness, intensive farming, organic farming, and sustainable agriculture.
• This approach to agriculture not only enhances food affordability, expands food availability, ensures food safety, and promotes sustainability but also contributes to increased oxygen levels near agricultural fields through heightened photosynthesis and facilitates the production of biofuels. 
• However, it also brings about environmental challenges due to its reliance on high input–high output techniques involving hybrid seeds, abundant irrigation water, fertilizers, and pesticides.

Table of Contents

PRECISION FARMING

• Precision farming, also referred to as precision agriculture, satellite farming, or site-specific crop management (SSCM), is a technology-driven farming management approach that revolves around the meticulous observation, measurement, and analysis of the specific requirements of individual fields and crops.
• In simpler terms, precision farming entails the collection and utilization of data pertaining to land areas for the purpose of monitoring and optimizing crop production.

PRECISION SIGNIFICANCE

Precision farming plays a pivotal role in modern agriculture by leveraging technology-driven solutions to manage a comprehensive range of Agricultural Management Systems (AMS). These interventions include:

• Continuous Data Generation: Precision farming involves the generation of on-site or on-farm data throughout various stages of agricultural practices, from sowing and crop growth to harvesting and post-harvest processing. By utilizing technological tools, this data is harnessed to enhance crop yield, quality, and profits for farmers within agricultural production systems.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Robotics, analytics, remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and global positioning systems (GPS) are deployed in precision farming to make informed decisions about farm management. These technologies enable farmers to analyze data effectively and optimize their farming practices.
• Adoption of Advanced Technologies: Precision farming encourages the adoption of cutting-edge technologies by farmers to enhance agricultural productivity. These technologies include big data and advanced analytics capabilities, robotics, aerial imaging, and smart local weather forecasts. By integrating these tools into farming practices, farmers can improve efficiency and output.
• Climate Resilience: Precision farming strategies contribute to resilience against changing climatic conditions. By implementing data-driven approaches, farmers can mitigate unwarranted variances and stabilize crop yields. This adaptability enhances the sustainability and profitability of agricultural operations in the face of environmental challenges.

CHALLENGES FOR PRECISION FARMING

• Technology Adoption: Indian farmers face challenges in adopting new technologies due to high levels of illiteracy, both digital and numerical, as well as a significant digital divide. This hinders their ability to implement modern technology in their farming methods effectively.
• Landholding Size: The small size of landholdings in India poses a challenge for the adoption of precision farming. Limited land area restricts the economic gains from currently available precision farming technology, making it less financially viable for small and marginal farmers.
• Economic Hurdles: Precision farming requires expensive equipment and machinery, making the initial cost prohibitive for many farmers, especially smallholders. Additionally, the operational costs associated with maintaining and using precision farming tools present a barrier to adoption.
• Financial Accessibility: Access to loans and financial support for purchasing agricultural technology is crucial for encouraging the adoption of precision farming among Indian farmers. Lack of access to affordable credit can hinder investment in precision farming equipment and tools.
• Social and Behavioral Factors: Resistance to change and reliance on traditional farming methods are significant barriers to the adoption of precision agriculture in India. Farmers may be hesitant to adopt new technologies due to a lack of knowledge and focused instruction in precision farming practices. The prevalence of ancient farming techniques passed down through generations contributes to resistance and rigidity in adopting precision farming methods.

PROTECTED CULTIVATION OF HORTICULTURE CROPS

It is a method of cultivating crops in a controlled environment, allowing for regulation of factors such as temperature, humidity, and light according to the specific requirements of the crop. This controlled environment promotes healthier growth and increased production of crops.

Moreover, this approach holds immense potential for streamlining and optimizing the farm-to-plate supply chain by enabling food production closer to consumers. This can significantly contribute to enhancing the nation’s GDP and reducing dependency on imports.

Additionally, it opens up opportunities for cultivating horticultural crops in an entrepreneurial manner, particularly targeting urban and semi-urban markets.

In India, small and medium farmers are increasingly adopting this method for flower and vegetable cultivation, utilizing various types of modular protected structures based on their investment capacity and the availability of markets in their respective areas.

Objectives of Protected Cultivation:

• Protection from Abiotic and Biotic Stress:
• Shielding plants from adverse environmental conditions such as extreme temperatures, water fluctuations, and pest infestations to ensure their health and productivity.
• Efficient Water Use and Weed Control:
• Optimizing water usage while minimizing weed growth to conserve resources and enhance crop growth.
• Increased Productivity:
• Maximizing yield per unit area by providing optimal growing conditions and minimizing losses due to environmental factors.
• Reduction of Pesticide Usage:
• Minimizing reliance on chemical pesticides through the implementation of protective measures against pests and diseases.
• Promotion of High-Value Horticultural Produce:
• Cultivating high-value, high-quality horticultural products that meet market demands and fetch better prices.
• Improvement of Planting Material:
• Enhancing the quality of planting material by promoting healthy, uniform, and disease-free seedlings with better germination rates and adaptability.
• Year-Round and Off-Season Production:
• Facilitating continuous or off-season production of flowers, vegetables, or fruits to meet market demand and maintain supply consistency.
• Production of Disease-Free Transplants:
• Generating disease-free and genetically superior transplants for subsequent field planting, ensuring healthier crops and improved yields.

Limitations of Protected Cultivation:

• High Initial Infrastructure Cost:
• The significant upfront investment required for constructing protected structures and installing necessary equipment.
• Skilled Labor Shortage:
• Difficulty in finding skilled workers for managing protected cultivation systems and the challenges associated with their local replacement.
• Lack of Technical Knowledge:
• Limited understanding of the specialized techniques and practices involved in growing crops under protected structures among farmers and agricultural practitioners.
• Intensive Operations:
• The need for constant and intensive labor and management inputs to monitor and maintain optimal growing conditions within protected environments.
• Supervision and Monitoring:
• Continuous monitoring and close supervision required to address issues promptly and ensure the proper functioning of the protected cultivation system.
• Pest and Pathogen Management:
• Challenges in managing certain pests and soil-borne pathogens effectively within protected environments due to limited control options.
• Maintenance and Repair:
• The ongoing need for repair and maintenance of infrastructure and equipment, which can be time-consuming and costly.
• Market Dependence:
• The necessity for assured market access and demand to justify the significant investment of resources in protected cultivation systems.

FAQs: Modern Agriculture Practices, Precision Farming, and Protected Cultivation

1-what is modern agriculture, and how does it differ from traditional farming.

A: Modern agriculture represents an evolving approach to farming that utilizes advancements in technology and methodologies to enhance efficiency while minimizing resource usage. It encompasses various practices such as agribusiness, intensive farming, organic farming, and sustainable agriculture, aiming to meet global food, fuel, and fiber demands.

2-What are the benefits of modern agriculture practices?

A: Modern agriculture improves food affordability, availability, safety, and sustainability. It also contributes to increased oxygen levels and biofuel production. However, it faces challenges due to its reliance on high-input techniques.

3-How does modern agriculture impact the environment?

A: While modern agriculture enhances productivity, it also poses environmental challenges such as increased use of hybrid seeds, irrigation water, fertilizers, and pesticides, leading to concerns about soil degradation, water pollution, and biodiversity loss.

4-What is precision farming, and how does it work?

A: Precision farming, also known as precision agriculture, utilizes technology-driven solutions to monitor and optimize crop production by collecting and analyzing data specific to individual fields and crops. It involves the use of robotics, analytics, remote sensing, GPS, and GIS for data-driven decision-making.

5-What are the significance and benefits of precision farming?

A: Precision farming enhances agricultural management by improving yield, quality, and profitability through data-driven approaches. It promotes resilience to climate change and facilitates the adoption of advanced technologies for efficient resource management.

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Development of Agriculture in India: Evolution, Modern Reform and Challenges

Exploring the Dynamics of Development of Agriculture in India Worldwide

Agricultural development in India aims to increase farm production to meet rising population demands . It involves expanding cropped areas, crop diversity, irrigation, fertilizers, and mechanization.

Agriculture has developed at different places in different parts of the world. Developing countries with large populations usually practice intensive agriculture where crops are grown on small holdings mostly for subsistence

Sowing Progress: The Evolution of Indian Agriculture from Independence to Green Revolution

• Pre-Independence Challenges: Indian agriculture was primarily subsistence-based before Independence and faced challenges like droughts and famines in the first half of the 20th century.
• Partition Impact: During partition, a significant portion of irrigated land went to Pakistan, reducing the proportion of irrigated land in Independent India.
• Post-Independence Agricultural Strategy: After Independence, the government focused on increasing foodgrain production by switching from cash crops to food crops , intensifying cropping on existing land, and bringing fallow land under cultivation.
• To address this, Intensive Agricultural District Programme (IADP) and Intensive Agricultural Area Programme (IAAP) were launched, but two consecutive mid-1960s droughts led to a food crisis.
• This helped India to achieve self sufficiency in foodgrain production.
• However, the Green Revolution was initially limited to irrigated areas, creating regional disparities.
• Agricultural Diversification: Government promoted development of dairy farming, poultry, horticulture, livestock rearing, and aquaculture.
• The policy of liberalization and a free-market economy in the 1990s influenced the direction of Indian agricultural development.

Harvesting Progress: Advancements in Agricultural Output and Technology in India

• Crops like rice, wheat, sugarcane, oilseeds, and cotton have seen substantial production and yield growth.
• It paved the way for modern agricultural practices , including the adoption of high-yielding seed varieties, chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and farm machinery. 
• The net irrigated area in the country has also expanded.
• The use of chemical fertilizers has increased 15-fold since the mid-1960s, contributing to enhanced agricultural productivity.

Nurturing Growth: Overcoming Challenges for Sustainable Development of Indian Agriculture

Indian agriculture is adversely affected by various issues impacting development of agriculture in India and livelihood of farmers. 

• Poor monsoons and fluctuations in rainfall patterns in regions like Rajasthan result in both droughts and floods, impacting crop production.
• Rainfed areas, especially drylands, face low yields.
• As a result, many turn to credit from institutions and moneylenders, leading to indebtedness.

• Among the three revenue systems operational during the British period, i.e., Mahalwari, Ryotwari, and Zamindari , the last one was most exploitative for the peasants.
• Land holdings are often fragmented , making them economically unviable.
• Commercialization and modernization are more prevalent in irrigated regions.
• Vast Underemployment: The agricultural sector in India experiences substantial underemployment, especially in unirrigated areas, leading to seasonal unemployment.
• Issues like alkalization, salinization, waterlogging, and excessive chemical use have compromised soil fertility. 
• Rainfed areas also face soil erosion and degradation due to human activities.

Tacking all these issues will surely contribute to development of agriculture in India.

Revitalizing Indian Agriculture through Technological and Institutional Reforms

To address the above problems comprehensively, various technological and Institutional measures has been initiated by the government. 

• Collectivization: Efforts were made to consolidate land holdings and foster cooperation among farmers.
• Abolition of Zamindari : The zamindari system was abolished to ensure equitable land distribution.
• Land Reforms : Land reform laws were enacted, though their implementation varied.
• Green Revolution : The Green Revolution, driven by technology adoption, aimed to boost agricultural productivity.
• White Revolution : The White Revolution, or Operation Flood, focused on dairy production and distribution.

• Comprehensive Land Development : In the 1980s and 1990s, a comprehensive land development program was initiated, combining institutional and technical reforms.
• Crop Insurance: Crop insurance against natural disasters was introduced.
• Grameen Banks: Grameen banks and cooperative societies provided farmers with access to loans at lower interest rates.
• Kisan Credit Card (KCC) : The KCC scheme aimed to provide credit to farmers.
• Personal Accident Insurance Scheme (PAIS) which aimed to offer insurance coverage to farmers.

• Weather Bulletins and Agricultural Programs: These  were introduced on radio and television for better dissemination of information. 
• Minimum Support Price (MSP) : The government announced MSPs for important crops to protect farmers from exploitation by middlemen and ensure sustainable development of Agriculture in India.
• Primary activities like hunting , gathering, pastoralism, mining, and mainly agriculture play a crucial role in meeting the demands of a growing population. 
• As the majority of the population in the world is dependent on agriculture, the ongoing development of agriculture in India is essential for ensuring food security and fostering sustainable economic growth in both developing and developed regions.

Also Read: Diverse Types of Agriculture: Understanding Forms and Practices Worldwide

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Modern Agriculture

• Last Updated : 17-Apr-2022

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Essay on Impact Of Technology On Agriculture

Students are often asked to write an essay on Impact Of Technology On Agriculture in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Impact Of Technology On Agriculture

Improving crop growth.

Technology helps farmers grow more food. Machines like tractors make preparing soil easy. Seeds are planted quickly with special tools. There are even computers that tell farmers the best time to plant. This means more crops can grow and people have plenty of food.

Protecting Plants from Pests

Keeping track of farms.

Drones fly over fields and take pictures. These images show which parts of the farm need more water or fertilizer. This helps farmers take care of their crops better and saves them time and money.

Climate and Weather

Technology predicts the weather accurately. Farmers know when it will rain or be too hot. They can plan when to water the plants or when to harvest. This way, bad weather does less harm to the crops.

Storing Food Properly

250 words essay on impact of technology on agriculture, technology makes farming easier.

Long ago, farmers had to work the land with their hands and simple tools. Now, machines do many tasks, making work faster and less tiring. Tractors plow fields in a day, which once took weeks. Machines also plant seeds and harvest crops. This means farmers can grow more food with less effort.

Better Crop Care with Technology

Technology helps farmers take care of plants better. There are special sensors that tell farmers how much water each plant needs. This way, not a single drop is wasted. Drones fly over fields to spot sick plants. Then, farmers can make them healthy before it’s too late. This helps to make sure more plants grow well and are ready to eat.

Keeping Track with Computers

Farmers use computers to keep an eye on their farms. They can see how much food they grow and how their animals are doing. Computers help them make smart choices. For example, they can find out the best time to sell their crops or when to buy new seeds.

Staying Safe from Bad Weather

Bad weather can destroy crops. But now, with new technology, farmers can be ready. They get weather reports on their phones and can protect their plants before storms hit. Some even use big covers to shield their crops from too much sun or rain.

In conclusion, technology has changed farming a lot. It makes growing food easier, helps farmers take better care of their plants, keeps track of farm details, and protects crops from bad weather. All this means we have more food on our tables every day.

500 Words Essay on Impact Of Technology On Agriculture

Introduction to technology in farming, better farming tools and machines.

One big change technology has brought to farming is better tools and machines. Before, farmers had to do a lot of hard work with their hands or use animals to help them. Now, there are machines like tractors, planters, and harvesters. These machines can do the work faster and save a lot of time. They can also be very precise, which means they make fewer mistakes, like planting seeds at the perfect depth in the soil.

Keeping Plants Healthy

Technology also helps farmers keep their plants healthy. There are special computers and apps that tell farmers when to water their plants or if a plant is sick. This is great because it means farmers can use less water and fewer chemicals, which is better for the earth. Drones, which are like small flying robots, can fly over fields and take pictures so farmers can see if all the plants are healthy or if some parts of the field need more care.

Understanding the Weather

Another helpful part of technology in farming is being able to understand the weather better. There are tools that can check the weather and tell farmers what it will be like in the future. This is important because if a farmer knows it will rain soon, they might decide not to water their crops that day. Or if they know it will be very cold, they can protect their plants to make sure they don’t freeze.

Helping Animals

Storing and moving food.

After the food is grown, technology helps keep it fresh and gets it to the stores where we buy it. There are big refrigerators that can keep fruits and vegetables cold so they don’t spoil. There are also trucks and ships with special coolers that can move food from the farm to the store without it going bad.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

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Revolutionising Indian Agriculture Through Natural Farming

• 10 Jan 2023
• 11 min read
• GS Paper - 1
• Agricultural Resources
• GS Paper - 2
• Government Policies & Interventions
• GS Paper - 3
• E-Technology in the Aid of Farmers
• Cropping Patterns

This article is based on “Why this dithering on natural farming?” which was published in Hindu Business Line on 08/01/2023. It talks about Natural Farming in India and related challenges.

For Prelims: Natural farming, Soil erosion, Greenhouse gas emissions, Gross Cropped Area (GCA), Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER), National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture, Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY), Sub-mission on AgroForestry (SMAF), Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, Corporate Social Responsibility.

For Mains: Significance of Natural Farming, Issues Associated with Natural Farming, Recent Government Initiatives Related to Sustainable Agriculture.

Natural farming is a method of agriculture that relies on natural processes rather than synthetic inputs . In India, it has gained popularity as a way to increase crop yields and reduce the environmental impact of agriculture.

However, there are a number of challenges that natural farmers in India face like limited market, lack of readily available natural inputs and decline in yields due to climate change.

As a result, it is crucial to scrutinise these challenges from a micro perspective , and to promote natural farming as a food production method that is eco-friendly and does not compromise the needs of future generations.

What is Natural Farming?

• Instead of relying on artificial inputs like synthetic fertilisers and pesticides, natural farmers rely on techniques like crop rotation , intercropping, and composting to enhance soil health and support crop growth.
• The goal of natural farming is to produce healthy, nutritious food in a way that is sustainable and environmentally friendly.

What is the Significance of Natural Farming?

• By relying on natural techniques, farmers can produce healthy, nutritious food without incurring high costs.
• It can also help to preserve biodiversity by supporting the growth of a variety of crops and other plants.
• This can be especially important in a country like India, where the population is expected to continue growing and there will be increasing pressure on natural resources.
• Economic Benefits: Natural Farming can make farming viable and aspirational by increasing net incomes of farmers on account of cost reduction, reduced risks, similar yields, incomes from intercropping.

What are the Issues Associated with Natural Farming?

• Weather and Climate: Natural farming methods may be more vulnerable to weather and climate changes , as they do not rely on synthetic inputs to boost crop growth. This can be a challenge for farmers in India, where the climate can be unpredictable.
• This can make natural farming more risky and challenging. For example, a natural farmer may struggle to control a pest infestation without the use of pesticides, which can lead to crop losses and financial hardship.
• For example, natural farmers may need to spend more time and effort on tasks like composting, crop rotation, and intercropping . This can be a challenge for farmers in India who are already stretched thin and may not have the time or manpower to devote to these tasks.

What are the Other Challenges Related to Farming in India?

• Lack of Irrigation Facility: At the national level, only 52% of India's Gross Cropped Area (GCA) is irrigated. The monsoon continues to restrict crop planting even though India has made significant strides since independence.
• Lack of Agricultural Diversification: In spite of the rapid commercialization of agriculture in India , most farmers assume cereals will always be their main crop (due to skewed Minimum Support Prices in favour of cereals ) and ignore crop diversification.

What are the Recent Government Initiatives Related to Sustainable Agriculture?

• Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER)
• National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture
• Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)
• Sub-mission on AgroForestry (SMAF)
• Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana

What Should be the Way Forward?

• This could be done through extension programs and creating farmer training centres at local level.
• The government could also establish regulations or standards to encourage the use of natural farming techniques.
• Linking Natural Farming with CSR: The private sector could help to promote natural farming in India through initiatives such as corporate social responsibility programs , investment in natural farming projects, and partnerships with natural farming organisations.
• Also, One District One Natural Product Mela can be organised at state level to promote and make natural farming products a brand in itself.
• This could involve research on topics such as the best natural fertilisers to use, the most effective pest control methods, and the most productive crop rotation.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Q.1 How is permaculture farming different from conventional chemical farming? (2021)

• Permaculture farming discourages monocultural practices but in conventional chemical farming, monoculture practices are predominant.
• Conventional chemical farming can cause an increase in soil salinity but the occurrence of such phenomenon is not observed in permaculture farming.
• Conventional chemical farming is easily possible in semi-arid regions but permaculture farming is not so easily possible in such regions.
• Practice of mulching is very important in permaculture farming but not necessarily so in conventional chemical farming.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 3 (b) 1, 2 and 4 (c) 4 only  (d) 2 and 3

Q.2 Which of the following is the chief characteristic of ‘mixed farming’? (2012)

(a) Cultivation of both cash crops and food crops (b) Cultivation of two or more crops in the same field (c) Rearing of animals and cultivation of crops together (d) None of the above

Q.1 What are the present challenges before crop diversification? How do emerging technologies provide an opportunity for crop diversification? (2021)

Q.2 How has India benefited from the contributions of Sir M. Visvesvaraya and Dr. M. S. Swaminathan in the fields of water engineering and agricultural science respectively? (2019)

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UPSC EDITORIAL ANALYSIS : How MSMEs can benefit by adopting sustainable practices

Source: indian express.

• Prelims: MSME, GDP, GHG’s, Environment, Social and Governance Framework (ESG) framework, National Guidelines for Responsible Business Conduct (NGRBC), Indian Green Building Council (IGBC)etc
• Mains GS Paper III: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment etc

ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS

• The UN General Assembly has designated June 27 as “ Micro-, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Day” to raise awareness of the tremendous contributions of MSMEs to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

INSIGHTS ON THE ISSUE

Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises(MSME’s):

• MSME stands for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.
• MSMEs are businesses that produce, process, and preserve goods and commodities.
• These are broadly classified based on their investment in plant and machinery for manufacturing or equipment for service enterprises, as well as their annual turnover.
• MSME Regulation in India : In 2007 , the Ministry of Small Scale Industries and the Ministry of Agro and Rural Industries Merged to form the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises.

Contribution of MSME:

• MSMEs account for 90 percent of businesses , 60 to 70 percen t of employment and 50 percent of GDP
• It accounts for about 30 percent of India’s GDP
• employs 110 million workers
• Have a 49 percent share in exports.
• In India, 96 percent of industrial units belong to small companies.
• The sector accounts for 38.4 percent of the total manufacturing output
• It contributes 03 percent o f the country’s total exports.

Employment generation :

• Over the last six years, there has been a 110 percent yearly increase in the creation of jobs.
• Udyam Portal(December 2022): Approximately 28 crore MSME registered industries employed 9.31 crore p eople including 2.18 crore women e mployees.

Challenges :

• inadequate infrastructure
• complex regulatory and compliance requirements
• low levels of productivity and competitiveness.
• Government data: It shows that over 10,000 MSMEs were closed in 2022-23, raising concerns over the sector’s health.
• Such risks impact infrastructure, operations and resources leading to a financial crunch, job losses, and migration.
• equivalent to the energy usage of up to 50 million metric tonnes of oil per year from 200 energy-intensive manufacturing clusters in India.

What steps need to be taken to overcome challenges?

• Sustainable and responsible business practices s hould be the pathway for MSMEs.
• The Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report (BRSR) by SEBI for 1,000 listed companies i s derived from the NGRBC.
• Organize business practices in alignment with the principles step by step and get the future ready.
• Adopting sustainability is important for meeting stakeholder expectations, reducing costs and increasing efficiency, enhancing brand reputation, higher business value and impact on environment and society.
• energy, waste, carbon emission and factors related to the environment in their supply chain
• Ensure good labor practices, m inimum wages, decent working conditions for workers and the safety of women.
• The NGRBC guidelines urge businesses t o conduct responsibly and sustainably and encourage and support their suppliers, vendors, distributors, partners, and other stakeholders to follow the same.
• Systematic adoption of the ESG framework a nd organizing the business practices along the nine principles of NGRBC remain imperative.
• To incorporate sustainable practices into their businesses: Governments, industry associations, civil society organizations and other stakeholders can play an active role in raising awareness, sharing best practices, and providing training and resources.
• Providing incentives to MSMEs through financial and non-financial ways can be an effective way to encourage them to adopt sustainability.
• SIDBI’s programme “Greening MSME” provides financial assistance with a maximum limit of INR 20 crores to MSMEs t o implement energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable technologies.
• Non-financial incentives such as recognition and awards c an also motivate MSMEs to adopt sustainable practices.

Way Forward

• MSMEs are part of larger supply chains, and collaboration with supply chain partners can help to drive sustainability improvements across the value chain.
• The CII’s program “GreenCo Rating System ” encourages sustainability improvements across the value chain by rating companies based on their environmental performance.
• Governments and other stakeholders can promote this to encourage MSMEs.
• This can be done through ratings and recognitions.
• The Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) program “IGBC Green Factory Building Rating System” provides certification to factories that adopt sustainable building practices.
• This can differentiate these factories from competitors a nd help them attract customers and investors who prioritize sustainability.

QUESTION FOR PRACTICE

• Economic growth in the recent past has been led by an increase in labor activity.” Explain this statement. Suggest the growth pattern that will lead to creation of more jobs without compromising labor productivity. (UPSC 2022)

(200 WORDS, 10 MARKS)

Editorial Analysis – 28 June 2024 [PDF ]

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