“The SMART AIMS initiative has improved service delivery to the Kerala farmers,” informs Prasanth Nair, IAS, Special Secretary, Dept of Agriculture Development & Farmer’s Welfare, Kerala

In an exclusive conversation with APAC News Network – CXO News, Prasanth Nair, IAS, Special Secretary, Department of Agriculture Development & Farmer’s Welfare Government of Kerala highlights the challenges faced by the agriculture sector in the state and how different initiatives are being undertaken to counter these challenges.

What are some of the major challenges that Kerala in the agriculture sector, and how is your department addressing these issues?

Kerala’s agriculture sector faces several significant challenges that hinder the optimal growth and sustainability of the industry. These challenges include fragmented land holdings, lack of entrepreneurial zest, declining productivity, climatic vulnerabilities, and market access issues. Additionally, there is a need to modernize farming practices and promote diversification to ensure better remuneration for farmers.

To address these issues, we have implemented a multi-faceted approach. We also plan to utilise the cultivable portion of fallow lands lying under-utilised which runs to over 1 lakh ha. This will provide access to land resources to youngsters and new farmers. Other key interventions are:

Promotion of Diversification:  We are encouraging farmers to diversify their crops, particularly by promoting horticrops and floriculture, which have higher market value and demand. This not only improves farmers’ income but also reduces the risk associated with monoculture practices.

Modern Scientific Cultivation:  We are advocating for the adoption of modern scientific cultivation techniques. This includes providing training on advanced agricultural practices, introducing high-yield and climate-resilient crop varieties, and promoting the use of precision farming tools and technologies.

Farmer Remuneration and Market Access:  The department is working on enhancing market linkages to ensure that farmers get better prices for their produce. Initiatives like direct market access, online platforms for selling produce, and farmer producer organizations (FPOs) are being strengthened to eliminate middlemen and provide fair remuneration to farmers.

Climate Resilience:  In the wake of recent floods, our focus has been on improving climate resilience in agriculture. This includes the development of climate-resilient cropping systems, water conservation techniques, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices that are better suited to the changing climatic conditions.

Support and Welfare Programs:  Various welfare programs are in place to support farmers financially and technically. This includes subsidies for seeds and fertilizers, interest-free loans, and crop insurance schemes to provide financial stability and security.

Infrastructure Development:  The establishment of better storage facilities, cold chains, and transportation networks is crucial to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure that produce reaches the market in good condition.

Can you discuss the impact and progress of the Agriculture Information Management System (AIMS) initiative, particularly the SMART module, on Kerala’s agricultural landscape?

The Agriculture Information Management System (AIMS) initiative, particularly its SMART module, has had a transformative impact on Kerala’s agricultural landscape. AIMS is a comprehensive platform designed to integrate and streamline agricultural data management, enhance decision-making processes, and improve service delivery to farmers.

Key Impacts and Progress:

Data-Driven Decision Making:  The SMART module (Sustainable and Modern Agricultural Resource Technology) within AIMS provides real-time data and analytics on various agricultural parameters. This enables farmers and policymakers to make informed decisions regarding crop selection, resource allocation, and pest management. By leveraging this data, we have seen improved productivity and efficiency in farming practices.

Enhanced Accessibility and Outreach: AIMS has significantly improved the accessibility of agricultural services. Farmers can now access information on government schemes, subsidies, and market prices through the platform. This transparency ensures that farmers are well-informed and can avail themselves of the benefits provided by the government more efficiently.

Streamlined Service Delivery: The integration of various agricultural services into a single platform has streamlined service delivery. Farmers can now apply for subsidies, register for training programs, and access advisory services online. This has reduced the bureaucratic burden and made the process more farmer-friendly.

Training and Capacity Building: The SMART module includes features for virtual classrooms and video conferencing facilities. This has revolutionized the way training and capacity-building programs are conducted. Farmers and agricultural officers can now participate in training sessions from remote locations, ensuring that knowledge and skills are disseminated widely and effectively.

Monitoring and Evaluation: AIMS facilitates continuous monitoring and evaluation of agricultural projects and schemes. This helps in identifying gaps, measuring impact, and making necessary adjustments to improve outcomes. The feedback loop created by AIMS ensures that the policies and programs remain dynamic and responsive to the needs of the farmers.

Resource Optimization: By providing detailed insights into soil health, weather conditions, and crop performance, AIMS enables better resource management. Farmers can optimize the use of inputs like water, fertilizers, and pesticides, leading to cost savings and environmental sustainability.

Market Linkages: The platform also includes modules for linking farmers with markets. By providing real-time market information and facilitating direct connections between farmers and buyers, AIMS helps in securing better prices for agricultural produce, thereby enhancing farmers’ income.

Overall, the AIMS initiative, with its SMART module, has played a crucial role in modernizing Kerala’s agricultural sector. It has empowered farmers with the tools and information needed to adopt sustainable and profitable farming practices, thereby contributing to the overall development and resilience of the agricultural landscape in the state.

With the establishment of virtual classrooms and video conferencing facilities, could you give example of the ways the measure has improved training and policy implementation within the department?

The establishment of virtual classrooms and video conferencing facilities has significantly improved both training and policy implementation within the Department of Agriculture in Kerala. These technological advancements have brought numerous benefits, particularly in terms of accessibility, efficiency, and effectiveness. Some examples of the positive impact are:

1. Enhanced Training Reach and Participation:

• Wide Accessibility: Virtual classrooms have enabled farmers and agricultural officers from remote and rural areas to participate in training programs without the need to travel long distances. This has greatly increased the reach and inclusivity of our training initiatives.
• Flexible Scheduling: With video conferencing facilities, training sessions can be scheduled at convenient times, accommodating the busy schedules of farmers. This flexibility has resulted in higher participation rates and engagement.

2. Cost and Time Efficiency:

• Reduced Travel Costs: Virtual training eliminates the need for physical travel, saving both time and money for participants. This has made it easier for more farmers to benefit from training programs.
• Efficient Resource Utilization: Trainers and experts can conduct sessions from a central location, optimizing the use of resources and allowing for more frequent and varied training sessions.

3. Real-Time Interaction and Feedback:

• Interactive Sessions: Video conferencing allows for real-time interaction between trainers and participants. Farmers can ask questions, seek clarifications, and receive immediate feedback, enhancing the learning experience.
• Feedback Mechanisms: The virtual platform facilitates instant feedback through polls, surveys, and Q&A sessions, allowing trainers to adjust content and methods to better meet the needs of participants.

4. Access to Expert Knowledge:

• Expert Involvement: Virtual platforms make it easier to involve experts from various fields, both within and outside the state. Renowned agricultural scientists, researchers, and successful farmers can share their knowledge and experiences without logistical constraints.
• Specialized Training: The department can organize specialized training sessions on advanced topics such as modern scientific cultivation techniques, climate-resilient farming, and sustainable practices, providing farmers with cutting-edge knowledge and skills.

5. Improved Policy Implementation:

• Efficient Communication: Video conferencing facilities have improved communication and coordination within the department. Regular virtual meetings ensure that all stakeholders are well-informed about policy updates, new initiatives, and progress reports.
• Timely Dissemination of Information: Policy changes, government schemes, and new guidelines can be communicated quickly and effectively to all relevant parties, ensuring timely implementation and compliance.

6. Monitoring and Evaluation:

• Continuous Monitoring: Virtual classrooms and video conferencing allow for continuous monitoring of training programs. Trainers can assess the effectiveness of sessions through real-time feedback and make necessary adjustments to improve outcomes.
• Data Collection: The digital platform facilitates the collection of data on participant attendance, engagement, and performance, which can be analyzed to measure the impact of training programs and identify areas for improvement.

By leveraging virtual classrooms and video conferencing facilities, the Department of Agriculture in Kerala has been able to enhance the quality and reach of its training programs, improve policy implementation, and ultimately support the overall development and welfare of the agricultural community in the state.

Following the recent floods, what steps has the department taken to improve climate resilience in agriculture?

In the aftermath of the recent floods, the Department of Agriculture in Kerala has taken a proactive approach to improve climate resilience in agriculture. Rebuild Kerala Intiative (RKI) is the key intervention in this aspect. Recognizing the increasing frequency and intensity of climate-related events, we have implemented several strategies and initiatives aimed at enhancing the adaptive capacity of the agricultural sector. Here are the key steps we have taken:

1. Development of Climate-Resilient Cropping Systems:

• Introduction of Resilient Crop Varieties: We are promoting the cultivation of climate-resilient crop varieties that can withstand extreme weather conditions such as floods, droughts, and temperature fluctuations. These include flood-tolerant rice varieties, drought-resistant millets, and other hardy crops.
• Diversification: Encouraging crop diversification to reduce dependency on a single crop and spread the risk. This includes promoting horticrops, floriculture, and agro-forestry practices.

2. Water Management and Conservation:

• Rainwater Harvesting: Implementing rainwater harvesting systems to capture and store rainwater for use during dry periods. This helps in maintaining soil moisture and supporting crops during drought conditions.
• Efficient Irrigation Techniques: Promoting the adoption of efficient irrigation techniques such as drip and sprinkler irrigation, which minimize water usage and ensure optimal distribution to crops.

3. Soil Health Management:

• Soil Testing and Fertility Management: Conducting soil tests to assess soil health and providing recommendations for appropriate fertilization and soil amendments. This helps in maintaining soil fertility and resilience against extreme weather events.
• Organic Farming Practices: Encouraging the use of organic farming practices, which improve soil structure and water retention capacity, making the soil more resilient to flooding and erosion.

4. Infrastructure Development:

• Construction of Embankments and Drainage Systems: Building and reinforcing embankments, canals, and drainage systems to prevent waterlogging and manage excess water during floods.
• Cold Storage Facilities: Establishing cold storage facilities to protect perishable produce during extreme weather events and ensure food security.

5. Climate-Smart Agriculture Training:

• Farmer Education Programs: Conducting training programs and workshops to educate farmers on climate-smart agricultural practices. These programs cover topics such as resilient cropping systems, water conservation, and soil health management.
• Use of Technology: Promoting the use of technology and digital tools, such as weather forecasting apps and early warning systems, to help farmers make informed decisions and prepare for adverse weather conditions.

6. Financial Support and Insurance:

• Crop Insurance Schemes: Expanding and promoting crop insurance schemes to provide financial protection to farmers against crop losses due to extreme weather events. This ensures financial stability and encourages farmers to invest in resilient practices.
• Subsidies and Grants: Providing subsidies and grants for the adoption of climate-resilient technologies and practices, such as rainwater harvesting systems, resilient seeds, and efficient irrigation equipment.

7. Research and Development:

• Collaboration with Research Institutions: Collaborating with agricultural research institutions to develop and disseminate climate-resilient technologies and practices. This includes research on resilient crop varieties, pest management, and sustainable farming techniques.
• Pilot Projects: Implementing pilot projects to test and demonstrate the effectiveness of climate-resilient practices and technologies, and scaling up successful models across the state.

Our focus is on ensuring the long-term sustainability and profitability of farming, thereby securing the livelihoods of our farmers and contributing to the overall resilience of the state.

Could you explain how the agro-ecological zones are being developed, along with some of the expected benefits of this zoning that will reflect positively on sustainable agricultural practices?

The development of agro-ecological zones (AEZs) in Kerala is a strategic initiative aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices by aligning farming activities with the ecological characteristics of different regions. Agro-ecological zoning involves classifying land based on its climatic, soil, and topographical features to identify the most suitable agricultural practices for each area.

Development of Agro-Ecological Zones:

1. Data Collection and Analysis:

• Climate and Soil Data: Comprehensive data on climate patterns, soil types, topography, and water availability is collected and analyzed. This includes historical weather data, soil health assessments, and geographic information system (GIS) mapping.
• Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services: Information on local biodiversity and ecosystem services is also considered to ensure that agricultural practices do not harm the environment.

2. Zoning and Classification:

• Region-Specific Zones: Based on the collected data, the state is divided into distinct agro-ecological zones. Each zone is characterized by specific climatic and soil conditions that dictate the most suitable crops and farming practices.
• Crop Suitability Mapping: Detailed maps are created to show which crops are best suited for each zone, considering factors such as rainfall, temperature, soil fertility, and water resources.

3. Policy and Planning:

• Zone-Based Policies: Policies are formulated to promote crops and farming practices that align with the characteristics of each zone. This includes providing targeted subsidies, training, and support to farmers to adopt the recommended practices.
• Resource Allocation: Resources are allocated efficiently based on the needs of each zone, ensuring that inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation are used optimally.

Expected Benefits of Agro-Ecological Zoning:

1. Enhanced Productivity:

• Optimal Crop Selection: By promoting crops that are best suited to the specific conditions of each zone, farmers can achieve higher yields and better quality produce. This leads to increased productivity and profitability.
• Efficient Resource Use: Resources such as water, fertilizers, and pesticides are used more efficiently, reducing waste and improving the cost-effectiveness of farming operations.

2. Sustainable Practices:

• Reduced Environmental Impact: Agro-ecological zoning encourages practices that are environmentally sustainable, such as crop rotation, organic farming, and integrated pest management. This helps in maintaining soil health, conserving water, and protecting biodiversity.
• Climate Resilience: By aligning agricultural practices with local climatic conditions, the zoning approach enhances the resilience of farming systems to climate change and extreme weather events.

3. Economic Benefits:

• Improved Remuneration: Farmers can achieve better market prices for their produce by growing high-value crops that are well-suited to their zones. This contributes to increased income and financial stability.
• Diversification Opportunities: Zoning promotes diversification by identifying niche crops and alternative farming practices that can thrive in specific regions. This reduces dependence on a single crop and spreads risk.

4. Targeted Support and Development:

• Tailored Extension Services: Extension services can be tailored to the specific needs of each zone, providing farmers with relevant advice, training, and support. This ensures that farmers are well-equipped to implement sustainable practices.
• Infrastructure Development: Infrastructure development, such as irrigation systems, storage facilities, and market access, can be prioritized based on the requirements of each zone, leading to more effective and targeted investments.

5. Improved Policy Implementation:

• Effective Monitoring and Evaluation: The zoning approach allows for better monitoring and evaluation of agricultural policies and programs. Data from each zone can be used to assess the impact of interventions and make necessary adjustments to improve outcomes.
• Informed Decision-Making: Policymakers can make informed decisions based on the specific characteristics and needs of each zone, leading to more effective and efficient agricultural policies.

By developing agro-ecological zones, Kerala aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices that are tailored to the unique characteristics of each region. This approach not only enhances productivity and profitability but also ensures the long-term sustainability and resilience of the agricultural sector.

What are some of the ongoing welfare programs currently in place for farmers in Kerala?

The Department of Agriculture in Kerala has implemented several welfare programs aimed at improving the livelihoods and overall well-being of farmers. These programs are designed to provide financial support, technical assistance, and access to resources, ensuring that farmers can sustain their agricultural activities and achieve economic stability. Here are some of the key welfare programs currently in place:

1. Subsidy Schemes:

• Input Subsidies: Farmers receive subsidies for purchasing essential agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. This reduces the cost burden and encourages the adoption of high-quality inputs.
• Machinery and Equipment Subsidies: Subsidies are provided for the purchase of modern agricultural machinery and equipment, such as tractors, tillers, and irrigation pumps, to enhance productivity and efficiency.

2. Crop Insurance Programs:

• Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): This scheme provides comprehensive crop insurance coverage against crop failure due to natural calamities, pests, and diseases. It ensures financial stability for farmers by compensating them for crop losses.
• Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme (WBCIS): This scheme provides insurance based on weather parameters to protect farmers from adverse weather conditions that affect crop yields.

3. Base Price Support Programs:

• Minimum Support Price (MSP): The government ensures that farmers receive a minimum support price for certain crops, protecting them from market fluctuations and ensuring a fair return on their produce.
• Procurement Programs: The government procures agricultural produce at guaranteed prices, providing a reliable market for farmers and preventing distress sales.

4. Financial Assistance and Credit Schemes:

• Interest-Free Loans: Farmers are provided with interest-free loans for agricultural activities, reducing their financial burden and enabling them to invest in their farms.
• Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme: This scheme provides farmers with easy access to credit for meeting their short-term and long-term agricultural needs, including the purchase of inputs, maintenance of equipment, and other expenses.

5. Training and Capacity Building:

• Farmer Training Programs: Regular training sessions and workshops are conducted to educate farmers on modern agricultural practices, sustainable farming techniques, and the use of advanced technologies.
• Extension Services: Agricultural extension officers provide on-field assistance and guidance to farmers, helping them implement best practices and improve their productivity.

6. Support for Horticulture and Floriculture:

• Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH): This mission promotes the development of horticulture through the provision of financial and technical support for the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, spices, and flowers.
• Floriculture Development Programs: Specific programs are aimed at promoting floriculture, providing support for the cultivation of ornamental plants and flowers, which have high market value and demand.

7. Infrastructure Development:

• Cold Storage and Warehousing: The government is establishing cold storage facilities and warehouses to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure that produce remains fresh and marketable.
• Irrigation and Water Management: Investment in irrigation infrastructure, such as canal systems and rainwater harvesting structures, ensures that farmers have reliable access to water for their crops.

8. Livelihood Support Programs:

• Integrated Farming Systems (IFS): This program promotes integrated farming practices that combine crop cultivation with livestock, poultry, and fish farming, providing multiple sources of income for farmers.
• Agri-Clinics and Agri-Business Centres (ACABC): These centres provide support for agri-entrepreneurs to set up agri-clinics and agri-businesses, creating additional income opportunities for farmers.

By implementing these welfare programs, the Department of Agriculture in Kerala aims to enhance the economic stability, productivity, and overall well-being of farmers. These initiatives are designed to address the various challenges faced by farmers and ensure that they have the necessary support to sustain and grow their agricultural activities.

How effective have the crop insurance and base price support initiatives been in providing security and stability to farmers?

Crop insurance and base price support initiatives have been crucial in providing security and stability to farmers in Kerala. These programs help mitigate the risks associated with agriculture, ensuring that farmers can sustain their livelihoods even in the face of adverse conditions. Here is an overview of their effectiveness:

Crop Insurance:

1. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY):

• Comprehensive Coverage: PMFBY offers comprehensive insurance coverage for crop losses due to natural calamities, pests, and diseases. This ensures that farmers receive compensation for their losses, reducing the financial impact of crop failures.
• Quick Claims Settlement: The scheme has improved the speed and efficiency of claim settlements, providing timely financial support to farmers. This prompt assistance helps farmers recover quickly and continue their agricultural activities without prolonged financial distress.
• Wide Reach: PMFBY has expanded its reach, covering a significant number of farmers across Kerala. This widespread coverage ensures that more farmers benefit from the scheme, enhancing the overall resilience of the agricultural sector.

2. Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme (WBCIS):

• Weather Parameter-Based: WBCIS provides insurance based on weather parameters such as rainfall, temperature, and humidity. This ensures that farmers receive compensation for losses due to adverse weather conditions, which are beyond their control.
• Risk Mitigation: By offering protection against weather-related risks, WBCIS helps stabilize farmers’ incomes and reduces the uncertainty associated with weather-dependent agriculture.

Base Price Support Initiatives:

1. Minimum Support Price (MSP):     

• Price Assurance: MSP provides farmers with a guaranteed minimum price for certain crops, ensuring that they receive a fair return on their produce. This helps protect farmers from market fluctuations and price volatility.
• Encouragement for Production: The assurance of a minimum price encourages farmers to invest in the cultivation of MSP-supported crops, knowing that they will receive a fair price for their efforts.

2. Procurement Programs:

• Market Access: Government procurement programs purchase agricultural produce at guaranteed prices, providing farmers with a reliable market. This reduces the risk of distress sales and ensures that farmers can sell their produce at fair prices.
• Reduction of Middlemen: By directly procuring produce from farmers, these programs eliminate the need for middlemen, ensuring that farmers receive the full benefit of the support price.

Effectiveness and Impact:

1. Financial Stability: Both crop insurance and base price support initiatives contribute to the financial stability of farmers. By providing compensation for crop losses and guaranteeing minimum prices, these programs ensure that farmers have a steady income, even in adverse conditions.
2. Risk Reduction: These initiatives significantly reduce the risks associated with agriculture, making farming a more viable and sustainable occupation. Farmers are more willing to invest in their fields and adopt modern practices when they have a safety net to fall back on.
3. Increased Productivity: With the assurance of financial protection and fair prices, farmers are motivated to increase their productivity and adopt best practices. This leads to overall improvements in agricultural output and quality.
4. Enhanced Livelihoods: By ensuring that farmers can sustain their livelihoods despite challenges, these initiatives contribute to the overall well-being of the farming community. This, in turn, supports rural development and economic growth in the state.

Overall, crop insurance and base price support initiatives have been effective in providing security and stability to farmers in Kerala. They play a vital role in mitigating the risks of agriculture, ensuring fair remuneration, and promoting sustainable farming practices. These programs are essential components of the state’s strategy to support and uplift its agricultural sector. 

Could you tell us about some of the new initiatives or policies that the department planning to introduce?

The Department of Agriculture in Kerala is continually working to introduce new initiatives and policies to enhance the agricultural sector, ensuring better income for farmers and promoting sustainable practices. Here are some of the upcoming initiatives and policies:

1. Agri-Tech Integration:

• Precision Farming: We are planning to introduce precision farming techniques that use data analytics, GPS, and IoT devices to optimize field-level management regarding crop farming. This will help in reducing input costs and increasing crop yields.
• Digital Platforms: Developing and expanding digital platforms for real-time information on weather forecasts, pest control advisories, and market prices. This initiative aims to empower farmers with timely and accurate information to make informed decisions.

2. Sustainable Farming Practices:

• Organic Farming Promotion: A significant push towards promoting organic farming by providing incentives and support for certification. This will enhance soil health and ensure the production of high-quality, chemical-free produce.
• Natural Resource Management: Initiatives to promote sustainable water management practices, including rainwater harvesting and micro-irrigation systems, to ensure the efficient use of water resources.

3. Diversification Programs:

• Horticulture and Floriculture Expansion: Promoting the cultivation of high-value horticultural crops and floriculture to diversify income sources for farmers. This includes providing quality planting material, training, and market linkages.
• Agroforestry Projects: Encouraging the integration of trees and shrubs into agricultural landscapes, which can improve biodiversity, soil health, and provide additional sources of income through timber and non-timber forest products.

4. Market Access and Infrastructure Development:

• Agri-Marketing Reforms: Implementing reforms to enhance market access for farmers. This includes establishing farmer-producer organizations (FPOs) to strengthen collective bargaining power and improving infrastructure like cold storage and transportation facilities.
• E-Market Platforms: Expanding e-market platforms to facilitate direct selling by farmers to consumers and institutional buyers, thereby reducing the role of intermediaries and ensuring better prices for farmers.

5. Climate Resilience and Adaptation:

• Climate-Resilient Crops: Promoting the use of climate-resilient crop varieties that can withstand extreme weather conditions. This initiative includes research and distribution of seeds suited for Kerala’s changing climate.
• Disaster Management Plans: Developing comprehensive disaster management plans to protect agricultural assets and ensure quick recovery post-disasters, with a focus on floods and droughts.

6. Youth and Women Involvement:

• Agri-Entrepreneurship Programs: Encouraging young entrepreneurs to enter the agriculture sector through training, mentorship, and financial support. Special focus will be on startups that bring innovation to agriculture.
• Women Empowerment in Agriculture: Programs aimed at empowering women in agriculture by providing training, resources, and support to women-led farming initiatives and cooperatives.

7. Financial and Insurance Support:

• Enhanced Crop Insurance Coverage: Expanding the coverage and benefits of crop insurance schemes to provide better financial security against losses due to natural calamities.
• Interest-Free Loans: Increasing the availability of interest-free loans to farmers for various agricultural activities, ensuring they have the necessary capital to invest in their farms.

8. Research and Development:

• Collaborative Research Projects: Partnering with research institutions and universities to develop innovative farming techniques, improve crop varieties, and address emerging agricultural challenges.
• Extension Services: Strengthening extension services to ensure that the latest research and innovations are effectively communicated to farmers and implemented in the field.

These new initiatives and policies reflect our commitment to creating a resilient, profitable, and sustainable agricultural sector in Kerala. By focusing on technology, diversification, sustainable practices, and market access, we aim to significantly improve the livelihoods of our farmers and ensure long-term agricultural growth.

Are there any further plans of the department to involve the young generation, and modernising the agricultural workforce?

Yes, the Department of Agriculture in Kerala has several plans to involve the young generation and modernise the agricultural workforce. Recognising the importance of attracting youth to agriculture and leveraging modern technology, the department is implementing various initiatives to make agriculture more appealing and sustainable. The upcoming World Bank Project (KERA) also has this as an area of interest. Here are some of the key focus areas:

1. Agri-Entrepreneurship Development:

• Youth Agri-Startups: We are promoting agri-startups by providing financial assistance, incubation facilities, and mentorship programs in collaboration with Kerala Startup Mission. This initiative aims to encourage young entrepreneurs to develop innovative solutions in agriculture, such as agri-tech, value-added products, and sustainable farming practices.
• Innovation Hubs: Establishing innovation hubs and agri-incubators to support young entrepreneurs with resources, technology, and networking opportunities. These hubs will act as catalysts for innovation and business development in the agriculture sector.

2. Skill Development and Training:

• Agri-Skill Training Programs: Launching extensive training programs to equip young farmers with modern agricultural techniques, business management skills, and digital literacy. These programs will cover areas such as precision farming, organic farming, and agribusiness management.
• Collaboration with Educational Institutions: Partnering with universities and vocational institutes to incorporate agricultural courses in their curricula, ensuring that students receive formal education and practical training in modern agriculture.

3. Technology Adoption and Digitalisation:

• Digital Agriculture Platforms: Promoting the use of digital platforms and mobile applications to provide young farmers with access to real-time information on weather, market prices, pest control, and best practices. This digitalisation aims to make farming more efficient and profitable.
• Smart Farming Technologies: Encouraging the adoption of smart farming technologies, such as drones, sensors, and IoT devices, to monitor crop health, optimise resource use, and increase productivity. Demonstration projects and subsidies for technology adoption will be provided.

4. Financial Support and Incentives:

• Youth Farming Grants: Introducing grants and subsidies specifically for young farmers to support the establishment and expansion of their farming operations. These financial incentives will help reduce the initial investment burden and encourage youth participation in agriculture.
• Interest-Free Loans: Offering interest-free loans and easy credit facilities to young farmers for purchasing inputs, machinery, and setting up agri-business ventures.

5. Modern Infrastructure Development:

• Agri-Tech Parks: Developing agri-tech parks that provide state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure for young entrepreneurs to experiment with and develop new agricultural technologies and practices.
• Modern Extension Services: Strengthening extension services with a focus on modern techniques and digital tools. Extension officers will be trained to guide young farmers in adopting innovative practices and technologies.

6. Market Access and Value Addition:

• Direct Market Linkages: Facilitating direct market linkages through online platforms and farmer-producer organisations (FPOs), enabling young farmers to sell their produce directly to consumers and institutional buyers, thereby maximising their profits.
• Value Addition and Processing: Promoting value addition and agro-processing units that can enhance the market value of agricultural products. Young entrepreneurs will be supported in setting up processing units to create high-value products from raw agricultural produce.

7. Sustainability and Climate Resilience:

• Climate-Smart Agriculture: Training young farmers in climate-smart agricultural practices that enhance resilience to climate change and reduce environmental impact. This includes practices such as conservation agriculture, integrated pest management, and agroforestry.
• Sustainable Livelihood Projects: Encouraging sustainable livelihood projects that integrate agriculture with other activities such as aquaculture, apiculture, and agrotourism. These projects provide multiple income streams and attract young people to diversified agricultural ventures.

By focusing on these initiatives, we aim to create a dynamic and modern agricultural sector that appeals to the young generation through KABCO (Kerala Agriculture Business Company). Through education, technology, financial support, and market access, we are committed to transforming agriculture into a viable and attractive career option for the youth, ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of the sector.

Alice Purty, APAC News Network