How does e-Technology help farmers in production and marketing of agricultural produce? Explain it. (2023, 10 Marks)

Paper	GS Paper 3
Word Limit	150 words
Syllabus Topic	e-technology in the aid of farmers; agricultural marketing

Model Answer

e-Technology means using digital tools like mobile apps, sensors, drones and online platforms in farming. It gives small farmers timely information, better inputs and fairer prices.

In Production

• Soil Health Card: crop-wise nutrient advice for balanced fertiliser use.
• Weather and crop advisories through the Meghdoot app and mKisan SMS.
• Kisan drones for spraying; Namo Drone Didi trains women SHG members.
• Remote sensing for crop yield estimates under PMFBY.
• Digital Agriculture Mission (2024) builds AgriStack, a farmer registry.

In Marketing

• e-NAM (2016): online trading across mandis gives better price discovery.
• FPOs sell online, including through ONDC.
• Electronic warehouse receipts help farmers get loans and avoid distress sale.
• Price apps cut the role of middlemen.

Challenges

Digital divide, low digital literacy and weak rural internet limit the reach.

Conclusion

With digital literacy and rural connectivity, e-technology can raise both productivity and income, supporting SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).

Related PYQs

• How can the ‘Digital India’ programme help farmers to improve farm productivity and income? What steps has the Government taken in this regards? (2015)
• Explain the factors influencing the decision of the farmers on the selection of high value crops in India. (2025)