The government is actively promoting a range of advanced agricultural technologies and practices to support small and marginal farmers. This initiative includes the use of Kisan Drones, climate-resilient crop varieties, integrated farming systems, micro-irrigation, precision farming, soil sensors, biofortified varieties, and digital marketing. These technologies are being disseminated through various schemes such as the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture, Namo Drone Didi, Krishionnati Yojna, Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization, and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana.
To ensure effective adoption of these technologies, the government has established a robust network of 731 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) across the country. These KVKs play a crucial role in demonstrating, training, and building the capacity of farmers in the latest agricultural advancements, thereby bridging the gap between research and practical application.
In a bid to further strengthen agricultural research and development (R&D), the budget for 2024-25 reflects a significant increase in allocations under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. The financial provisions for the past three years highlight this commitment: ₹8658.89 crore in 2022-23, ₹9876.60 crore in 2023-24, and ₹9941.09 crore in 2024-25.
The government's R&D efforts are focused on several key areas. Climate resilience is at the forefront, with ongoing development of climate-resilient crop varieties and smart agricultural practices. There is also a special emphasis on developing high-yielding varieties of oilseeds and pulses. Additionally, natural resource management aims to conserve and sustainably manage land and water resources.
Biofortification efforts are underway to develop crop varieties that can address undernutrition. Technological support spans various sectors such as field crops, horticulture, fisheries, and livestock, aiming to ensure nutritional and food security while promoting sustainable development.
Mechanization efforts are geared towards enhancing agricultural production and post-harvest processes through innovative technologies.The strengthening of agricultural education, management, and social sciences is also a key focus, along with reinforcing the role of KVKs for effective technology testing, demonstration, and dissemination to farmers
