🔊 Take a moment and listen

Known for her innovative leadership and governance expertise, Anju Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Agriculture & Cooperative Department, Government of Gujarat, illuminated the transformative potential of integrating IT into agriculture. She discussed how Gujarat has pioneered digital advancements in agriculture, establishing itself as a model of sustainable growth and efficiency.

Her talk focused on empowering farmers, promoting precision farming, and fostering sustainability through technology. By leveraging tools like IoT, drones, and digital platforms, Gujarat has set a benchmark for innovation-driven governance.

iKhedut Portal Revolutionising Farmer Services

The integration of IT in governance has proven to be a game-changer in Gujarat’s agricultural sector. iKhedut Portal, introduced in 2014, has revolutionised farmer services by consolidating benefits like crop damage compensation into a single, accessible platform. This initiative ensures transparency, eliminates duplication, and enables beneficiaries to receive services efficiently.

The ACS emphasised how IT has expedited service delivery, allowing farmers to access vital resources from the comfort of their homes. These advancements demonstrate the power of digital tools in fostering equitable distribution of government benefits.

Focusing Digital Literacy

One of the key highlights of Gujarat’s efforts is its focus on empowering farmers through digital literacy. Under the Smartphone Support Scheme, farmers receive a 40% subsidy for smartphones costing up to ₹15,000. This initiative has enabled them to leverage digital tools for accessing weather forecasts, information on seed varieties, and modern farming techniques.

She noted that the widespread use of smartphones is transforming rural communities, equipping farmers with the knowledge to make informed decisions. “Digital tools empower farmers by bridging the knowledge gap,” she remarked.

Innovations in Precision Farming

Precision farming is another frontier where Gujarat is excelling, thanks to advancements in IoT and data analytics. These technologies provide farmers with real-time information on soil moisture levels, enabling them to optimise irrigation schedules. Similarly, IoT-based platforms guide farmers on fertiliser and pesticide application, minimising waste while maximising efficiency.

The Digital Crop Survey, a significant innovation, uses drone imagery to assess crop conditions. This data is crucial for tailoring schemes like Minimum Support Price (MSP) and fertiliser subsidies, providing personalised and timely support to farmers.

Embracing Sustainability

Promoting sustainable farming practices has been a cornerstone of Gujarat’s agricultural policies. Techniques like natural farming and drone-based nano-fertilizer spraying are reducing dependence on chemical inputs. Last year alone, Gujarat substituted over 9 lakh tons of conventional urea with nano-urea, reflecting a strong commitment to eco-friendly practices.

Drones are increasingly being used to spray fertilizers and pesticides with precision, reducing wastage and ensuring optimal crop health. Farmers receive subsidies for these services, further encouraging the adoption of sustainable methods.

Supporting Startups and Innovation

Gujarat has created a fertile ground for agricultural innovation by supporting startups through its Startup Policy. These startups collaborate with farmers to develop scalable solutions that enhance productivity and sustainability.

Moreover, strategic investments in irrigation infrastructure have transformed arid regions like Kutch into fertile agricultural hubs. These efforts showcase how IT and technology penetration can bridge resource gaps and bring unprecedented benefits to farmers.

Anju Sharma’s address offers actionable insights for the future of agriculture. Expanding initiatives like the Smartphone Support Scheme and Digital Crop Survey to other regions could empower millions of farmers across India. Investment in precision farming and sustainable practices will pave the way for eco-friendly and cost-effective farming solutions.

The success of these initiatives lies in the commitment to leveraging IT for governance and innovation. Also, Gujarat’s journey highlights how technology can empower communities, foster sustainability, and drive economic growth in agriculture.

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