AI, data to transform farming: Chouhan
Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Friday said artificial intelligence and data would transform the face of farming, thus leading to higher agricultural income and food security.
“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s agricultural policy is entering a new digital and innovation driven era. The government’s policy focus is clear —increasing farmers’ incomes, ensuring food security and providing the population with nutritious diets,” he told the Rajya Sabha.
He said every farmer will get digital solutions through the ‘Bharat Vistaar’ platform.
“The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana is a boon for farmers; 29 million farmer IDs have been linked to the National Insurance Portal. Young startups are bringing innovation and self-reliance to agriculture through the Digital Agriculture Mission,” he said.
“In today’s era, technology and data are the greatest forces. Through the Digital Agriculture Mission, we are inspiring the younger generation toward innovation and entrepreneurship. Youth are constantly experimenting in the fields of farming and horticulture,” the minister said.
He added that the Modi government has taken a decision to use AI to increase farmers’ productivity, promote sustainable agriculture and improve livelihoods.
“We have launched not just one but several programmes, among which ‘Kisan e-Mitra’ is a major initiative that functions as a voice-based AI chatbot. Farmers can directly ask questions about any issue related to schemes like PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, crop insurance or the Kisan Credit Card and receive immediate solutions. This service is is available in 11 regional languages so every farmer can benefit,” he added.
He also told the Upper House that 10,000 FPOs (farmer producer organisations) have been formed in the country. “Of 10,000 FPOs, a total of 1,175 FPOs are registered with 100 per cent women members. As of January 1, 2026, out of 56.32 lakh farmers registered under the ‘Formation and Promotion scheme’, 21.96 lakh are women farmers,” he said.
Chouhan added that the Centre has generated more than 8.43 crore ‘farmer IDs’ and that the farmer registry work has been completed in 19 states so far.
