On the joyous occasion of the 78th Independence Day, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (MoA&FW) extended invitations to more than 1,000 farmers and their spouses for a special two-day program honouring the heroes of the fields. These farmers included beneficiaries of central government schemes such as PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, PM Fasal Bima Yojana and FPO representatives.
On 15th August, the special invitees will assemble at Subramaniam Hall, PUSA for an interaction with Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan. The program will also be graced by the Ministers of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Ramnath Thakur and Shri Bhagirath Choudhary.
On the momentous occasion, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan will launch the National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS). This digital initiative by Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare utilizes cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to offer timely and precise pest management advisories. The system comprises a user-friendly mobile app and a web portal, ensuring accessibility for all farmers. By leveraging real-time data and advanced analytics, NPSS enables accurate pest identification, monitoring, management.
Farmers will greatly benefit from NPSS as it provides quick solutions to pest attacks and crop diseases, reducing crop losses and thus improving productivity. The system’s comprehensive pest incidence data and automated advisories will empower farmers with actionable insights, helping them make informed decisions and take proactive measures to protect their crops.
The launch of NPSS marks a significant step forward in modernizing agriculture in India, enhancing food security, and supporting sustainable farming practices. This initiative underscores the Government’s commitment to leveraging technology for the welfare of farmers and the advancement of the agricultural sector.
For an enriched experience, a comprehensive field visit to the renowned PUSA Campus was organized for the farmers on 14th August 2024 facilitating direct interaction of farmers with scientists.
The farmers were guided through various clusters and blocks, including the Green House Ornamental Nursery, Vegetable cultivation under Drip irrigation, Mushroom Unit IFS-rainfed System, Nutrient Management Plot, Farm Machinery Workshop, Pearl Millet Block, Rice Block, Composting Unit and more at the campus in IARI –Pusa with the aim of connecting farmers with the scientists.
This field visit aimed to provide the farmers with a first-hand understanding of cutting-edge technologies and sustainable farming methods for improving their agricultural practices, leading to better income opportunities.
