Gujarat Pioneers Digital Agriculture Mission with Farmer IDs for 25% of Targeted Farmers

Ahmedabad, Dec 7 (KNN) Gujarat has become the first state in India to achieve a significant milestone under the Digital Agriculture Mission, generating 'Farmer IDs' for 25 per cent of the targeted farmers in the state, according to an official government release on Friday.

This achievement marks a breakthrough in building Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as part of the Agri Stack initiative by the Government of India. The initiative aims to create a robust digital agriculture ecosystem by providing farmers with a unique digital identity.

The Farmer ID, dynamically linked to the state’s land records system and based on Aadhaar, ensures seamless updates with changes in land ownership details. This innovation provides a solid foundation for the government’s vision of a tech-driven agricultural sector.

While Gujarat leads the charge, Madhya Pradesh has generated Farmer IDs for 9 per cent of its farmers registered under PM KISAN, followed by Maharashtra at 2 per cent. 

Other states, including Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Rajasthan, have also begun implementing this system.

The Farmer ID is more than just a digital identifier; it represents a gateway to transformative benefits for farmers. It simplifies applications for government schemes, eliminating cumbersome processes. 

Crop loans and credit, a critical need for many farmers, can now be disbursed paperlessly within an hour, ensuring swift financial assistance.

Personalised agricultural advisory services tailored to each farmer’s specific needs will help improve productivity and crop management.

The system also ensures direct and transparent benefit transfers, reducing inefficiencies and delays in receiving government support.

Enhanced market connectivity aims to connect farmers with broader markets, allowing them to achieve better pricing for their produce. 

Together, these features aim to boost financial inclusion, improve incomes, and promote sustainable farming practices.

To ensure comprehensive coverage, the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare has adopted a multi-mode strategy.

Farmers can register themselves through mobile apps, assisted by field workers, or participate in dedicated camps or Common Service Centres (CSCs).

The Digital Agriculture Mission underscores collaborative efforts between states and the Centre through MoUs on DPI development and special assistance incentives, setting the stage for a digitally empowered agricultural revolution. 

This transformative initiative is poised to redefine agriculture in India, fostering innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. (KNN Bureau)