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The Aadhaar-like ID for farmers will simplify scheme access, reduce verification issues, and improve agricultural planning starting in October 2024.
The Indian government is introducing a new ID system for farmers, similar to the Aadhaar system, starting in October 2024. Agriculture Secretary Devesh Chaturvedi announced this initiative during the Outlook Agri-Tech Summit and Swaraj Awards. This new ID system is designed to digitize the agriculture sector and streamline processes for farmers.
The goal is to register 5 crore (50 million) farmers by March 2025. This initiative is part of the Rs 2,817-crore Digital Agriculture Mission, which was recently approved by the Indian Cabinet. The registration process will begin in the first week of October 2024, and the government will soon release detailed guidelines for the farmers.
A pilot project has already been tested in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, with 19 states now participating. Once the registry is fully created, every farmer registered will receive a unique ID, much like Aadhaar.
Speaking at the event, Secretary Chaturvedi highlighted the need for this new system. “Currently, farmers must undergo verification each time they apply for agricultural schemes. This process can be costly and cause unnecessary stress for them. The new registry aims to solve this issue by creating a single verification process for farmers."
This ID will simplify access to various government schemes such as the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and Kisan Credit Card programs. It will also save farmers time and reduce the paperwork required. Additionally, this new system will help the government develop better policies and communicate directly with farmers about specific services.
At present, government data mostly covers land and crop information, but it lacks details about individual farmers. The new registry will fill this gap, making it easier to plan future initiatives.
Chaturvedi urged farmers, scientists, and agricultural companies to spread the word about this registration process. The government plans to organize registration camps across the country to help farmers enroll in the system.
Apart from the new ID system, the government is also developing a Kisan AI-based chatbot to further assist farmers, providing real-time support and information about agricultural practices.
By October 2024, Indian farmers will be on their way to a more digitized and efficient agricultural system, thanks to this new initiative.
Also Read: Government to Distribute 4,000 Tractors to Farmers Under New Scheme
The new Aadhaar-like ID system for farmers aims to streamline access to government schemes, reduce verification hassles, and improve agricultural planning. With nationwide registration starting in October 2024, the initiative promises to digitize the sector and empower farmers with better services and policy support for the future.