The Biotech-Krishi Innovation Science Application Network (Biotech-KISAN) is a farmer-centric scheme that aims to link available science and technology to farms by understanding and providing solutions to the problems faced by local farmers .
Key Aspects of the Biotech-KISAN Scheme:
- Launch and Purpose: Launched in 2017, the scheme was developed by the Department of Biotechnology with and for farmers . It focuses on providing solutions to issues related to water, soil, seeds, and market access .
- Hub-and-Spoke Model: The program operates on a pan-India basis using a hub-and-spoke model, which promotes entrepreneurship and innovation among farmers, with a focus on empowering women farmers .
- Farm Leadership: The scheme identifies and promotes local farm leadership, encouraging science-based farming and knowledge transfer .
- Agro-Climatic Zones: Biotech-KISAN Hubs have been established across all 15 agro-climatic zones and Aspirational Districts in the country .
- Objectives: The program aims to connect science and technology with farming by identifying local farmer problems and providing scientific solutions . These hubs are intended to provide the technology needed to create jobs related to agriculture and bio-resources, improving livelihoods for small and marginal farmers through biotechnological advancements .
- Training and Counseling: The scheme provides farmers with counseling and demonstrations on various improvements, such as improved seeds and planting stock, the use of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR’s)/bio-fertilizers, and irrigation and protected cultivation technologies . It also covers improved livestock and poultry management .
- Special Focus on North East Region (NER): Given that 70% of the workforce in the North East Region is engaged in agriculture, there is a special emphasis on promoting location-specific crops, horticulture, fisheries, and livestock production to enhance income in the region .
- Progress and Impact: The Biotech-KISAN scheme has benefitted over two lakh farmers, increasing their agricultural output and income, and has also led to the development of over 200 entrepreneurships in rural areas . In just the last year, it has provided benefits to over 160,000 farmers .
In summary, the Biotech-KISAN scheme is a comprehensive program that aims to improve agricultural productivity and livelihoods for farmers through the application of biotechnological innovations and scientific solutions .
