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The government has implemented a two-pronged plan, incorporating both traditional farming methods and contemporary technologies, to drastically alter India’s agricultural environment. This comprehensive strategy seeks to empower women in agriculture, address issues encountered by farmers, and advance sustainable development.
National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF):
India, a country largely dependent on agriculture, must contend with challenges like erratic weather patterns and shifting market conditions. Acknowledging this, the government has been actively promoting natural farming since 2019–20 through programmes like the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) and Bharatiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP). With a focus on community-based organisations like Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) like Krishi Sakhis and Pashu Sakhis, BPKP has changed into NMNF.
Gender Inclusivity in Agriculture:
The Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA) makes sure that women are actively involved in farming to close the gender gap. Women’s Food Security Groups are encouraged and assisted with training, publication, and input access under ATMA criteria. These organisations support a variety of agricultural endeavours and act as “Model Food Security Hubs.” Guidelines are implemented under the supervision of a Gender Coordinator, who makes sure that women make up at least 30% of the group.
Agricultural Initiatives to Empower Women:
Women work as farmer friends under ATMA, encouraging creative endeavours. To encourage women beneficiaries to participate actively in agriculture, the Central Sector Scheme of Agri. Clinics and Agri. Business Centres offer a 44% subsidy.
Role of National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE):
By organising One Day Awareness Programmes on Natural Farming for Gram Pradhans around the nation, MANAGE plays a crucial role in raising awareness. Information is disseminated to benefit a variety of stakeholders, including women farmers, through a website and knowledge repository on Natural Farming as well as study materials in 22 regional languages.
Elements Affecting the Uptake of Contemporary Farming Technologies:
The adoption of contemporary farming methods is influenced by a number of variables, such as regional variances, socioeconomic circumstances, crop types farmed, and the accessibility of irrigation facilities. To encourage modernization, the government has launched initiatives including the National e-Governance Plan for Agriculture and the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanisation.
Value Chains and Market Linkages:
Examine the strategies the government has in store to improve farmer access to fair pricing for their produce by strengthening market connections. There can also be an emphasis on programmes that work to strengthen value chains, lower post-harvest losses, and raise farmers’ overall income.
Climate-Sensitive Farming:
Talk about the steps made to strengthen Indian agriculture’s resistance to climate change while keeping in mind the erratic weather patterns noted in the introduction. Additionally, emphasis on any new methods or technologies that have been implemented to lessen the effects of climate change on agriculture.
Training and Skill Development:
Give information about the training courses that are available to farmers, particularly women, to give them the know-how for natural and modern farming methods. While assisting continued skill development in agriculture, there can also be a look into joint ventures with academic institutions or career training facilities.
Developments in Agricultural Mechanisation – Initiatives from Punjab and Bihar:
During 2014–15, Punjab and Bihar have made notable progress under the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanisation. With the help of Rs. 111.43 crores, 12,666 pieces of agricultural equipment can now be distributed with subsidies thanks to Punjab. Similarly, Bihar distributed 28,559 pieces of agricultural machinery after receiving Rs. 94.93 crores. Through initiatives approved by the National e-Governance Plan for agriculture, both states have embraced technology innovations.