Mains Daily Question
Oct. 11, 2023
Q3. Farming 3.0 is changing the narrative around agriculture from subsistence to sustainability. Discuss. (10M, 150W)
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Approach to the answer: Understanding and structuring the answer: The main demand of the question is to explain the statement about Farming 3.0 Introduction: Type 1: Give the overall significance of the agriculture sector and explain the meaning of Farming 1.0 and Farming 2.0 Type 2: Highlight the meaning of Farming 3.0 and then give the issues of Indian agriculture in a hub and spoke diagram. Body: Heading 1: Subsistence to Sustainability: Give points along with examples Conclusion: Type 1: Give the measures for better transitioning in Farming 3.0 Type 2: Highlight some government initiatives to promote Farming 3.0 |
Answer: Farming 3.0 refers to a new paradigm in agriculture that emphasises sustainability and innovation, moving beyond the traditional model of subsistence farming. It represents a shift towards environmentally friendly practices, advanced technologies, and a holistic approach to agriculture that takes into account social, economic, and environmental aspects.
The Dalwai Panel has highlighted three main problems in Indian Agriculture – High Input Cost, Low productivity and weak market linkages. Farming 3.0 will use disruptive technologies to bring another agricultural revolution resulting in increased farmer’s income.
Feature of Farming 3.0
- Water Savings: Micro irrigation frees the farmer from vagaries of seasonal monsoon while also conserving the limited water resources.
- For example, Micro-irrigation can result in more than 80% savings in irrigation.
- Precision Farming: Precision farming is an approach to farm management that uses information technology to access real time data about crops, soil, weather etc. to ensure crops and soil receive exactly what they need for optimum health and productivity.
- Better Market Linkages: Digital platforms can be used to connect farmers directly with the consumers bypassing the middlemen.
- For example, e-NAM integrates more than 1200 mandis across 22 states.
- Extension Services: Farmers can be provided timely information about the quality of seeds, rain forecast, market prices etc.
- Improved Market Opportunities: Farming 3.0 encourages farmers to diversify their production and explore niche markets and value-added products.
- For example, e-NAM provides farmers real time prices of various agricultural products based on which they can take decisions of crops.
Transitioning from conventional farming practices to sustainable methods requires education, training, and support for farmers to adapt to new techniques and overcome potential resistance to change. The adoption of advanced technologies may require significant investments and access to resources, which can be a barrier for small-scale farmers.
