Bridging the Digital Divide Through Community Support
While smartphone penetration is rising rapidly across rural India, the government recognizes that many farmers still lack personal access to mobile devices or may be unfamiliar with digital tools. To ensure inclusivity, farmers can use services offered through Farmers Producer Organisations (FPOs), Krishi Sakhis, Common Service Centres (CSCs), and various state-run institutions.
These support centres help farmers access schemes, market information, weather updates, insurance claims, credit facilities, and digital advisory services. CSCs, in particular, serve as a lifeline for remote communities by offering digital services at minimal costs.
The integration of the Bhashini language platform has further enhanced accessibility by making digital applications available in Indian regional languages, enabling farmers to interact with technology in their native tongue. This localisation effort is crucial for bridging the language barrier that often restricts rural adoption of digital tools.
AI Tools Improving Productivity and Sustainability
Artificial Intelligence is playing an increasingly important role in Indian agriculture. The government has introduced AI-driven tools aimed at improving crop productivity, preventing losses, and helping farmers make informed decisions.
Kisan e-Mitra: AI Chatbot for Farmers
One of the major innovations is the “Kisan e-Mitra,” a voice-based AI chatbot designed to answer farmer queries related to essential government schemes such as PM-Kisan, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, and Kisan Credit Card. Supporting 11 regional languages, the chatbot currently handles over 8,000 queries per day and has answered more than 93 lakh questions to date. Plans are underway to expand its knowledge base to more agricultural schemes and technical advisories.
National Pest Surveillance System
Climate change has made pest attacks more unpredictable, causing significant crop losses. To combat this, the National Pest Surveillance System uses AI and machine learning to detect pest infestations early. Farmers or extension workers can upload photos of pests, allowing the system to identify the problem and recommend timely interventions.
Currently used by more than 10,000 agricultural workers, the tool supports 66 crops and over 432 pest species. With real-time insights, farmers can prevent major losses and reduce dependence on excessive chemical pesticides.
Satellite-Based Crop Mapping
AI-driven crop mapping is another advancement being adopted nationwide. Using satellite imagery and field photographs, the system helps monitor crop health, cropping patterns, sowing data, and weather interactions. This data aids both farmers and policymakers in optimizing resource allocation, planning procurement, and improving climate resilience.
Government’s Vision for a Digitally Enabled Farming Sector
These initiatives reflect India’s larger goal of building a smart and sustainable agricultural ecosystem. By increasing the use of AI, digital advisory systems, and local-language apps, the government aims to reduce the digital divide, improve rural incomes, and empower farmers to make decisions backed by accurate data.
