ICAR Partners with Amazon Kisan to Boost Agricultural Productivity and Farmer Livelihoods

In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at revolutionizing Indian agriculture, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) based in New Delhi has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Amazon Kisan. The collaboration seeks to combine the strengths of both organizations to provide scientific guidance to farmers and enhance crop yield and income through the adoption of advanced cultivation practices.

Under the agreement, ICAR will offer technological expertise and support to farmers through Amazon's extensive network. By leveraging Amazon Kisan's platform, ICAR aims to improve farmers' livelihoods by equipping them with the knowledge and resources necessary for optimum crop cultivation. The partnership will also ensure access to high-quality fresh produce for consumers across India, including through Amazon Fresh.

Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary DARE & Director General ICAR, emphasized the significance of secondary agriculture in enhancing farmers' remuneration. He stressed the importance of critical inputs and season-based crop plans in agricultural practices. Dr. Pathak also highlighted ICAR's commitment to collaborate with Amazon in areas such as technology integration, capacity building, and knowledge transfer.

Also Read: Amazon India Improving Farmer Livelihoods & Boosting Crop Yield Using Technology

During the signing ceremony, the MoU was endorsed by Dr. US Gautam, Deputy Director General (Agricultural Extension) from ICAR, and Mr. Sidhrtha Tata, Senior Product Leader from Amazon Fresh Supply Chain & Kisan. This collaboration builds upon the successful outcomes of a pilot project conducted in Pune by ICAR-KVK and Amazon, which demonstrated the efficacy of precision agriculture practices developed through extensive research.

Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) will play a crucial role in extending the benefits of this partnership to a wider group of farmers. Leveraging their technological infrastructure, KVKs will facilitate the transfer of technology and capacity-building programs to empower farmers with the latest agricultural practices. ICAR and Amazon will jointly conduct demonstrations, trials, and capacity-building initiatives at Krishi Vigyan Kendras to further enhance farming techniques and profitability.

In addition to technological support, Amazon will provide training assistance and aid farmers in marketing their products through its online platform. This direct connection between farmers and consumers will enable farmers to reach a wider market, boosting their incomes and improving overall market efficiency.

source-PIB

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