Recently The Union Cabinet approved the Rs 2,817-crore Digital Agriculture Mission for the creation of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in the farm sector.
Digital Agriculture Mission
It aims to nurture agri-tech start-ups by harnessing cutting-edge advancements in cloud computing, earth observation, remote sensing, data analytics, and artificial intelligence/machine learning models.
Key Features
The mission to create Digital Public Infrastructure in the agriculture sector is similar to the government’s flagship e-governance initiatives in other sectors, which have over the years resulted in digital solutions such as the Aadhaar unique ID, the DigiLocker document folder, the eSign electronic signature service, the unified payments interface (UPI) instant money transfer protocol, and electronic health records.
Three major components of DPI are envisaged under the Digital Agriculture Mission: AgriStack, Krishi Decision Support System (DSS), and Soil Profile Maps. Each of these DPI components will provide solutions that will allow farmers to access and avail of various services.
— The mission also aims to create a tech-based ecosystem, the Digital General Crop Estimation Survey (DGCES), which will provide accurate estimates of agricultural production.
— A budgetary allocation of Rs 2,817 crore has been made for the Mission, of which Rs 1,940 crore will be provided by the Centre, and the rest by the states and Union Territories (UTs). The Mission will be rolled out across the country over the next two years (until 2025-26).
Three Pillars of Mission
(i) AgriStack: The farmer-centric DPI AgriStack consists of three foundational agri-sector registries or databases: Farmers’ Registry, Geo-referenced Village Maps, and Crop Sown Registry, all of which will be created and maintained by state/ UT governments.
(ii) Krishi DSS: The Krishi Decision Support System, which was unveiled recently, will create a comprehensive geospatial system to unify remote sensing-based information on crops, soil, weather, and water resources, etc.
(iii) Soil Profile Maps: Under the Mission, detailed Soil Profile Maps (on a 1:10,000 scale) of about 142 million hectares of agricultural land are envisaged to be prepared.
— Digital General Crop Estimation Survey (DGCES): This will be a major push to improve the existing crop yield estimation system, and to make the data more robust, addressing concerns that are sometimes raised about the accuracy of India’s agriculture production estimates.
Current Status of Digitalisation in India
According to the RBI, the share of India’s core digital economy increased from 8.5% of GVA in 2019 to 12.5% in 2023 with a growth rate of 15.6% over 2019-2023. India is driven by increased smartphone adoption, improved internet connectivity, and government initiatives promoting a digital economy.
Benefits associated with Digitalisation of Agriculture
Digitalization of agriculture brings numerous benefits, transforming how farming is practiced and managed. Here are some key advantages:
Improved Productivity and Efficiency:
Precision Agriculture: Technologies like GPS-guided tractors and drones enable precision farming, optimizing the use of inputs such as water, fertilizers, and pesticides, leading to higher yields and reduced waste.
Automated Processes: Automation of tasks such as planting, irrigation, and harvesting saves time and labor, increasing efficiency and reducing costs.
Enhanced Decision-Making:
Data-Driven Insights: Real-time data from sensors, drones, and satellites provides detailed information on soil health, weather conditions, and crop performance, enabling farmers to make informed decisions.
Predictive Analytics: AI and machine learning models can predict crop yields, pest infestations, and weather events, helping farmers plan better and reduce risks.
Sustainability and Resource Management:
Optimized Resource Use: Digital tools allow precise application of water, fertilizers, and pesticides, minimizing environmental impact and conserving resources.
Sustainable Farming Practices: Digitalization supports sustainable agriculture by reducing carbon footprints, preventing soil degradation, and promoting biodiversity through informed land use.
Market Access and Financial Inclusion:
E-Commerce Platforms: Digital marketplaces connect farmers directly with consumers and buyers, increasing their income by eliminating middlemen.
Access to Finance: Digital financial services, such as mobile banking and digital wallets, provide farmers with easier access to loans, insurance, and subsidies.
Risk Management:
Weather Forecasting: Accurate weather predictions help farmers plan activities, protecting crops from adverse conditions.
Pest and Disease Monitoring: Early detection of pests and diseases through digital monitoring systems enables timely interventions, reducing crop losses.
Knowledge Sharing and Education:
Traceability and Transparency:
Supply Chain Management: Digital tools enable traceability from farm to fork, ensuring food safety and quality. Consumers can track the origin of their food, increasing trust and transparency.
Compliance and Certification: Digital records help farmers comply with regulations and obtain certifications, which can open up new markets and opportunities.
Digitalization is revolutionizing agriculture by making it more efficient, sustainable, and resilient, ultimately contributing to global food security and rural development.
Challenges Associated with Digitalisation of Agriculture
Digitalization of agriculture offers many opportunities but also comes with several challenges. Some of these challenges include:
Access to Technology: Farmers, particularly in developing regions, may lack access to the necessary technology, such as smartphones, computers, and reliable internet. This digital divide can prevent them from benefiting from digital tools and platforms.
Data Privacy and Security: The collection and use of large amounts of data in agriculture raise concerns about data privacy and security. Farmers need assurance that their data will be protected and not misused.
Cost of Implementation: The initial cost of adopting digital technologies, including hardware, software, and training, can be prohibitive, especially for small-scale farmers. This can deter adoption despite the potential long-term benefits.
Lack of Digital Literacy: Many farmers may lack the necessary digital skills to effectively use new technologies.Training and education are crucial to ensure that farmers can take full advantage of digital tools.
Integration with Traditional Practices: Agriculture has deep-rooted traditional practices. Integrating new digital technologies with these practices can be challenging, requiring significant adjustments and changes in mindset.
These challenges need to be addressed through collaborative efforts involving governments, private sector players, educational institutions, and farmers themselves to realize the full potential of digital agriculture.