Tech tools vital for farmers to boost their income

VP Sethi and Manjeet Singh

THE use of digital technologies is the need of the hour to transform conventional agriculture. A key aspect of these technologies is the generation and use of the decision support system (DSS). Several modern technologies and practices are being used around the world and these can be beneficial to increase the income of farmers in India.

Implementing precision farming techniques, such as remote sensing, drones and satellite imagery, can help farmers monitor crop health, optimise irrigation and use fertilisers more efficiently. This approach reduces input costs and increases crop yield, leading to a higher income. Precision agriculture, also known as smart farming, utilises technology and data-driven techniques to optimise agricultural practices. It can also help farmers have access to market information, financial assistance and government programmes.

Digital tools such as mobile apps and sensor-based technologies provide real-time data on weather patterns, pest infestation and market prices. This information assists farmers in making informed decisions regarding crop selection, timing of farming activities and selling their produce at competitive prices. Supply chain optimisation for direct farm-to-market transactions allows cultivators to bypass intermediaries and tap larger markets. It also provides traceability, ensuring better quality control and fair trade practices.

Financial and risk management tools include mobile payment systems, crop insurance and access to credit facilities. By improving financial inclusion and managing risks associated with farming, farmers can protect their income and invest in agricultural activities more confidently.

Agro-forestry practices, wherein farmers cultivate trees alongside crops, provide multiple sources of income. Trees can offer timber, fruits and other products, while crops provide short-term income. Crop diversification techniques can also help farmers reduce risks by growing different types of crops or raising livestock, thus ensuring a steady revenue.

Encouraging the adoption of efficient irrigation methods such as drip irrigation and the sprinkler system can optimise water usage. This leads to higher crop productivity and reduced dependence on uncertain rainfall patterns, resulting in increased income for farmers. Government initiatives promoting improved irrigation methods, access to affordable technologies and farmers’ awareness programmes are essential to encourage wider adoption of these techniques. Additionally, financial support, subsidies and training programmes can help farmers overcome investment barriers, making improved irrigation methods more accessible.

Providing farmers easier access to institutional credit can enable them to invest in modern farming equipment, technologies and infrastructure. Additionally, establishing robust market linkages and creating farmer-producer organisations can be helpful.

It is imperative to organise regular training sessions and workshops to familiarise farmers with the latest agricultural practices, techniques and technologies. Empowering farmers with information and capabilities makes them adopt modern practices effectively, leading to improved productivity and income.

For example, farmers in Maharashtra improved their cotton yield by 24 per cent by implementing the DSS, while reducing water usage by 29 per cent. This resulted in increased income due to higher crop productivity and reduced input costs.

The DSS also enables farmers to precisely monitor pest attacks and diseases. By analysing weather patterns, crop conditions and pest thresholds, farmers can receive timely alerts and recommendations on the optimal use of pesticides or integrated pest management techniques.

In Punjab, farmers involved in precision agriculture with the DSS witnessed reduced pesticide usage by 30 per cent while maintaining higher yield.

By integrating soil sensors, weather data and crop models, the DSS provides guidance on the precise application of the inputs. This ensures that resources are used judiciously according to crop requirements. In Andhra Pradesh, farmers using precision agriculture with the DSS achieved water-saving of up to 30 per cent. The DSS provided real-time soil moisture data, enabling farmers to finetune irrigation scheduling, reduce water usage and save on energy costs.

The DSS extends beyond the field, integrating market information and risk management tools. Farmers can receive market forecasts, access price trends and take a call on crop selection, timing of cultivation and marketing strategies. This empowers them to target profitable markets, negotiate better prices and reduce market-related risks. For instance, farmers in Karnataka utilising precision agriculture with the DSS receive market information through apps and portals. They identify niche markets for certain crops and adjust their production accordingly, besides engaging in direct marketing.

To fully harness precision agriculture with the DSS, it is essential to develop reliable data networks, provide technological training and support and ensure accessibility in remote areas. Government initiatives and partnerships with technology providers can aid in realising the income-boosting potential of this approach for farmers across India.

Sethi is Head, Department of Mechanical Engineering, and Singh is Dean, College of Agricultural Engineering & Technology, PAU, Ludhiana

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