On this occasion, Sri. Sunil Kumar Rana, President of West Bengal Cold Storage Association highlighted, “Considerable enthusiasm is observed among Potato growers and around 5.10 lakh hectare land has been cultivated in the current season. He estimated production of around 135-140 lakh ton potato in the current season; domestic consumption in West Bengal being 65 lakh ton, the balance stock need to be marketed outside the state. To ensure steady price and regular supply of potato in the market he requested the authorities to frame a system for release of the stored stock at a uniform rate of 12% each month during the unloading period. He recommended collection and analysis of Pan India comprehensive data on cultivation, harvesting, storage & marketing for formulation of necessary action plan and monitoring the stock situation on a real time basis.”
Govt. initiative was suggested for farmers to maintain proper grading, curing and assortment; standardization on the above was also suggested. Since extension of storage period beyond November has become common experience for almost every year it was requested by him that the quantum of additional rent for extended storage period need to be included in the notification for periodical rent Revision.
In view of the periodical rise in input cost and cost of capital for cold storages, demand was placed for raising cold storage rent at par with rent in other potato producing states where current rate is Rs. 230/- to Rs.270/- per quintal. He mentioned that cold storage rent was not revised by the Govt. despite the Expert Committee recommendation for revision of cold storage rent to Rs. 190 & Rs. 194 for South & North Bengal respectively. But till the last 4 years rent is Rs. 168 & Rs. 172. He apprehended that operation of cold storages in the ensuing season may be hampered as store owners are unwilling to operate their units with the present rent structure. For that reason more than 150 Cold Storage is NPA in the Bank. Further, it was suggested that cold storage rent calculation should be based on 85% storage capacity instead of 100% storage capacity as utilization of 100% capacity is rarely experienced.
]]>The adoption of drip and sprinkler irrigation systems has enhanced crop yields across multiple crops, including wheat, sugarcane, and vegetables. Farmers using these systems have reported yield improvements ranging from 25% to 40%, depending on the crop type, with superior quality and consistency in produce.
Micro-irrigation has revolutionized fertilizer applications through 98% precision in fertigation. On average, farmers have reduced their fertilizer costs by ₹4,000–₹7,000 per hectare, minimizing waste and improving soil health.
With water resources under strain, the implementation of Premier Irrigation’s systems has resulted in saving approximately 22-30 million liters of water annually in the two states. By delivering water directly to the root zones, the systems ensure minimal evaporation and runoff, achieving up to 60% water savings.
Farmers have observed a 50% decline in weed growth due to targeted water delivery. This has reduced labor costs for manual weeding by ₹1,500 per hectare and decreased herbicide usage by 30%, lowering overall production costs.
The systems also offer additional benefits such as 15-20% energy sav
ings due to low-pressure operation and improved soil health, with over 80% of farmers reporting better soil conditions due to reduced erosion and nutrient leaching
Premier Irrigation has conducted over 500 workshops, Farmers meeting and field demonstrations, training 9256 farmers on the proper use and maintenance of micro-irrigation systems. These programs have increased adoption rates by 25% year-over-year, with significant farmer satisfaction.
In partnership with state agricultural departments and local cooperatives, Premier Irrigation has expanded the reach of micro-irrigation systems, contributing to a 10% growth in agricultural sustainability metrics in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. These efforts are expected to create a ripple effect, influencing practices in neighboring states.
Mr. Ram Prakash, a farmer from district Charkhi Dadri, Haryana remarked, “My wheat yield has increased by 25%, and I’ve saved 60% on water usage since switching to micro-irrigation (mini sprinkler). This technology has transformed my farming practices.”
Mr. Shivram, a farmer from Unnao district in Uttar Pradesh, remarked, “My tomato yield has increased by 20%, and I’ve saved 70% on water usage since switching to drip irrigation on my one-acre land. After seeing the benefits of drip irrigation, I have installed it on an additional 0.5 hectares. This technology has truly transformed my farming practices.”
Premier Irrigation Adritec continues to drive innovations that enhance resource efficiency, increase farm profitability, and support sustainable agriculture. With an ambitious goal of reaching 25,000 farmers by 2025, the company is setting a new benchmark in agricultural technology.
Reference:
- Impact Analysis of Micro Irrigation System (MIS) on Yield, Water, Fertilizer Saving, and Farmer’s Economy
- Impact on Crop Yields and Water Productivity
- Water Conservation, Reduction in Weed Growth, Enhanced Fertilizer Use Efficiency,
https://pmksy.gov.in/microirrigation/Archive/August2015.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com
- MICRO IRRIGATION
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2003188
- Water Savings Per Hectare
December 8, 2024, New Delhi – The rural and agricultural sectors play a vital role in the economic development and sustainable growth of any nation. Recognizing the importance of these sectors, Snail Integral Pvt. Ltd has organized a full-day summit on “Agriculture and Rural Communication Summit 2024” today at Pride Plaza Hotel, Aerocity, New Delhi.
The purpose of the summit is to discuss the innovative agriculture & rural communication strategies, policy alignment, and multi-stakeholder collaboration to bridge the gaps for a Viksit Bharat 2047.
During the summit ‘The SnailShow Coffee Table Book” & Knowledge Paper on ‘Rural Communication and Agriculture in India: Pathways to a Viksit Bharat 2047” was released. The SnailShow Coffee Table Book has highlighted the initiative of top industry leaders in the field of sustainable agriculture.
Read Also: GIRI Strengthens Its Presence in India with New Showroom in Malkajgiri, Hyderabad
While addressing the inaugural session Mr. Deepak Shah, Chairman, SML Limited said “To boost Indian agriculture, we need to reduce dependence on imports, promote local manufacturing, and improve communication with farmers about new technologies. Additionally, simplifying the registration process for patent-acquired molecules can encourage Indian companies to bring in proven, safe, and effective products, ultimately benefiting farmers and the country.”
While addressing the summit Dr. Rajarshi Roy Burman, ADG (Ag. Extension), ICAR highlighted “ICRA has taken many steps towards digital delivery system such as VISTAAR AI Chatbot roll out in 5 states like Madhya Pradesh, UP, Jharkhand, Rajasthan and Bihar(April end); technology winroom sessions continue for technology and network integration; bluebook and network specifications drafted and shared for reviews; 20 trainings conducted for capacity building and onboarding of extension workers on to VISTAAR ChatBot and 14 Master trainers from 8 pilot states have been trained”.
Dr. P.K. Singh, Agriculture Commissioner, Government of India, emphasized the importance of sustainability in agriculture, stating that the Indian system of agriculture is based on sustainability. To promote sustainable practices, the government is implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems and developing new seed varieties to reduce chemical and fertilizer use . Effective communication is crucial in supporting these efforts, and educating farmers about sustainable practices can be achieved through digital platforms, workshops, and demonstrations.
Mr. Augusto Rodríguez-Villa, Founder President and CEO, AlgaEnergy, Spain said “In terms of technology collaboration between two countries particularly in case of our company, AgriEnergy, we are dealing with a group of Indian scientists, that are collaborating together with us in developing new products with high technology. We are developing products that are really very efficient and economically rentable for future agriculture
During the 2nd edition of “Agriculture and Rural Communication Summit 2024 a knowledge paper on “Rural Communication and Agriculture in India: Pathways to a Viksit Bharat 2047”by Synergy Technofin and Snailintegral was also released.
The report highlights the need for future-forward solutions to transform rural communications and agriculture such as advances in Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Blockchain technology. These innovations are set to transform the way farmers work, making data-driven agriculture more accessible and empowering them to increase yields, improve crop quality, and enhance their livelihoods, said Mr. Amit Khare, Founder, Snailintergal
The integration of IoT sensors, satellite data, and AI-driven advisories will provide farmers with precise insights into crop health, soil moisture levels, and weather forecasts. AI-powered tools can analyze local data to offer personalized recommendations on crop choices, irrigation scheduling, pest control, and market prices, leading to potential yield increases of up to 20% in certain regions, said Mr. Sunil Sihag, MD, Synergy Technofin Pvt. Ltd.
Augmented Reality (AR) technology is also poised to play a significant role in agricultural training and development. Through mobile devices, AR applications can guide farmers through tasks such as equipment repair, pesticide application, and crop care, providing step-by-step instructions with visual overlays. Virtual farm tours and training modules can help farmers understand new techniques, such as crop rotation and irrigation, by immersing them in realistic, interactive environments, Mr. Amit Khare, Founder, Snailintergal added.
In addition, Blockchain technology is set to bring transparency and security to agricultural transactions, enabling farmers to sell directly to consumers or retailers, bypassing middlemen. This technology can also foster traceability in the supply chain, allowing farmers to negotiate better prices and reducing economic vulnerabilities.
A knowledge paper has also highlighted the importance of digital literacy, strategic partnerships, and inclusive communication strategies to empower rural India. Key findings includes: collaborating with local schools and institutions to promote digital literacy; empowering women in agriculture to enhance productivity and socio-economic resilience; developing segmented communication strategies to cater to diverse demographics and using local languages and dialects, with voice-based solutions, to overcome literacy barriers. These initiatives will aim to contribute to the mission of making India a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
The day long summit has focused on various panel discussions such as sustainability in agriculture: The role of communication to combat emerging challenges; empowering farmer communities through communication: strategies for impact; technologies transforming communication strategies and innovations for effective farmer’s engagement.
]]>Loans Will Be Easily Available In Villages Also
Now Small Finance Banks (SFBs) will be able to give loans through UPI. The advantage of this will be that even in villages, villagers will be able to get loans easily through UPI. SFB has more reach in villages. SFB did not have this facility yet. According to RBI, the limit of loan without collateral for farmers from the year 2019 was Rs 1.6 lakh. Before that this limit was Rs one lakh.
Plan To Improve The Performance Of The Agriculture Sector
This decision of RBI related to the benefit of crores of farmers is also important because the performance of agriculture should be better in any case to strengthen the GDP growth rate in the current financial year. In the second quarter of the current financial year, the agriculture sector grew by 3.5 percent while the growth rate of manufacturing was two percent. Rural demand depends on a good crop and GDP can be expected to strengthen in the third and fourth quarters only with the increase in rural demand.
AI Based Solution To Prevent Digital Fraud
The RBI governor said that the Reserve Bank is continuously making efforts in collaboration with other banks to prevent digital and cyber fraud. In this direction, the use of AI has been started to detect mule accounts. Das said that mule accounts are used for cyber fraud. The amount of fraud comes in the mule account only. Cyber fraud can be reduced significantly if it is identified in banks.
Work On Mule Account Started In Two Big Banks
Competitions are being organised continuously for MuleHunter Solution to detect mule accounts. Reserve Bank Innovation Hub and banks are working together in this direction. Work to identify mule accounts with the help of AI has started in two big banks.
]]>Success Story: Use of machines in farming increases both production and productivity. But due to poor economic condition, most of the farmers are not able to buy expensive machines. Selvaperumal, a resident of Tiruvannamalai district of Tamil Nadu, set up a Custom Hiring Center (CHC) to provide agricultural machines on rent to farmers. Through this, they are earning a lot by giving machines on rent to farmers.
What is Custom Hiring Center
Custom Hiring Center (CHC) is a place where agri machines are made available on rent to farmers. However, there are small and marginal farmers whose financial condition is not very good due to which they are unable to buy expensive agricultural machines, they get benefit here.
Started business by taking loan
After training at an NTI National Agro Foundation under the Agri-Clinic and Agri-Business Center scheme, Selvaperumal decided to purchase a paddy combined harvester. He tried to get a bank loan but it got delayed due to formalities. To avoid losses for one season, he bought a combined harvester using his savings and borrowing from relatives.
Earning lakhs every month
‘Selvaperumal Paddy Harvester’ provides combined paddy harvesters on rent to paddy growers. Selvaperumal runs his harvester for about 150 to 200 hours per month during the harvesting season. Earn Rs 2,30,000 every month on rent of Rs 1300/hour. Every month Rs 90,000 is spent on diesel and Rs 18,000 is spent on maintenance. Selvaperumal himself drives the harvester, so he did not need a driver except an assistant.
According to the management, their average monthly profit during the harvesting season is Rs 1,15,000/-. Selvaperumal also advises paddy growers on the primary components of paddy processing and avoiding post-harvest losses.
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