The Ministry of Agriculture has recently entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with tech giant Microsoft, aiming to launch a pilot programme across 100 villages in six different states. In the line of work, Microsoft is tasked with creating a ‘Unified Farmer Service Interface’ utilizing its cloud computing services. This initiative forms a crucial part of the ministry’s strategy for developing ‘AgriStack’, a technological solution set intended to revolutionize the agricultural sector.
Understanding AgriStack
AgriStack denotes a compilation of technologies and digital repositories aimed at enhancing farmers’ productivity and modernizing the agriculture realm. The system is anticipated to evolve into a comprehensive platform for farmers, facilitating end-to-end services throughout the agriculture food value chain. AgriStack aligns with the broader agenda of the Centre’s Digital India program, which strives to digitize varied data ranging from land titles to health records.
The government is concurrently executing the National Land Records Modernisation Programme (NLRMP). This program is designed to assign each farmer a unique digital ID, comprising personal details, land particulars, as well as production and financial data. These IDs will subsequently be linked with the individual’s national digital ID, Aadhaar.
The Underlying Necessity
Currently, a considerable portion of farmers in India are categorized as small and marginal, possessing scant access to advanced technologies or formal credit, both of which could potentially enhance output and yield better prices. Technological initiatives proposed under the program, ranging from sensors monitoring cattle to drones employed for soil analysis and pesticide application, have the potential significantly better farm yields while giving a substantial boost to farmers’ income.
Envisaged Advantages
The application of digital technology could comprehensively address problems such as inadequate access to credit and information, pest infestation, crop wastage, poor price discovery, and yield forecasting. It is also expected to instigate innovation, attract investment towards the agricultural sector, and contribute to research for developing more resilient crops.
Concerns Surrounding the Initiative
Notwithstanding the potential benefits, concerns have arisen regarding the absence of a Data Protection Legislation. This could potentially allow private data processing entities access to confidential farmer data. The transition of agriculture extension activities into digital and private spheres might imply a risk of commercialization.
Resolving Disputes and Privacy Issues
The MoU includes provision for physical verification of digitally acquired land data. However, it lacks clear instructions regarding dispute resolution procedures. Furthermore, connecting the proposed farmer ID with Aadhaar raises potential issues concerning privacy and exclusion. Researchers have consistently pointed out vulnerabilities in the Aadhaar database, besides highlighting instances of Aadhaar-based exclusion in welfare delivery.
Looking Ahead
The promise that data and technology hold for empowering farmers is undeniable. However, ensuring a balanced flow of information is paramount. Private corporations involved in pilot projects need to collaborate effectively with state governments for reconciling disparities over land ownership. The government should proceed with the larger project based on the outcomes achieved through these pilot trails.
