The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is preparing to launch a Farmers Innovation Fund. This initiative originates from ICAR’s goal to scientifically validate, scale-up and spread the innovative techniques of advanced farmers. The project includes establishing an innovation centre in New Delhi where these forward-thinking farming methods will be scientifically validated with farmers being given the opportunity to conduct research work.
Agriculture and Science
A cornerstone of this programme is the connection between farmers, farming, and science. The intent is to bolster farm practices by providing a firm basis in science. Encouraging continuous innovation from farmers is another aim of the programme. Krishi Vigyan Kendras, extensions of ICAR, regularly document these farming innovations.
Technology in Agriculture
ICAR’s stance is that agriculture is a science and that the use of scientific principles can boost agricultural outcomes. The organization touts the success of various agricultural revolutions like the green and white revolutions, stating these were made possible through the application of scientific concepts and technology. To further promote technological usage in farming, ICAR has fostered connections between 105 startups and farmers.
Organic Farming Initiatives
As part of its organic farming drive, ICAR has developed 45 different models of organic farming, each suitable for distinct agro-climatic regions. Additionally, the council has validated 51 integrated farming systems to aid farmers in increasing their income.
Fertilisers and Pesticides
ICAR’s commitment to promoting organic farming is also evident in its current development of nano fertilizers and nano pesticides, which aim to decrease dependence on traditional pesticides and fertilizers.
Youth and Agriculture
To strengthen rural bio-economy and draw youth into the agricultural sector, a programme named Arya is being implemented. The programme serves to train young individuals to become entrepreneurs and embark on start-ups. So far, over 5000 youth have been involved in this initiative, with around 104 of these start-ups dealing in the marketing of processed food items.
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) | An essential part of the National Agricultural Research System, with a focus on location-specific technology modules in agriculture and allied enterprises. |
| Farmers Innovation Fund | An initiative by ICAR to scientifically validate, scale-up, and propagate the innovations of progressive farmers. |
| Arya Programme | A drive to improve rural bio-economy and attract youth to agriculture. |
Indian Science Congress
In the Indian Science Congress of 2020, the theme was “Science & Technology: Rural Development”. Notably, the Farmers’ Science Congress was inaugurated for the first time in the 107-year history of the Indian Science Congress. This highlighted the importance of the innovative practices of farmers and their scientific validity.
About Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
Established on 16 July 1929, ICAR is an autonomous organization under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. Formerly known as Imperial Council of Agricultural Research, it is headquartered in New Delhi. As the apex body responsible for coordinating, guiding and managing research and education in agriculture across India, it includes horticulture, fisheries and animal sciences within its portfolio.
Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs)
Integral components of the National Agricultural Research System, KVKs are designed to assess location-specific technology modules in agriculture and allied enterprises. Functioning as Knowledge and Resource Centres of agricultural technology, they support public, private and voluntary sector initiatives aimed at improving the agricultural economy of their respective districts, linking the National Agricultural Research System with the extension system and farmers. Funded entirely by the Government of India, the first KVK was established in 1974 at Puducherry.
