Biotech Kisan Scheme, Launch Date, Features, Objectives, Impacts

The Biotech-Krishi Innovation Science Application Network (Biotech-KISAN) is a transformative initiative launched in 2017 by the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology designed to enhance the lives of farmers across India by bridging the gap between agricultural challenges and scientific solutions. This farmer-centric program has gained prominence for its innovative approach to addressing issues such as water management, soil health, seed quality, and market access.

Biotech Kisan Scheme Features

Following are the features of Biotech Kisan Scheme: 

1. The scheme promotes collaboration between scientists and farmers, ensuring solutions to the unique needs of local communities.
2. Operating under a hub-and-spoke model, the program extends its benefits to all 15 agro-climatic zones and 115 Aspirational Districts across the country.
3. Special emphasis is placed on women farmers through initiatives like the Mahila Kisan Biotech Fellowship, initiating leadership and grassroots innovation.
4. By encouraging entrepreneurial ventures in rural areas, the scheme aims to stimulate innovation and economic growth.

Biotech Kisan Scheme Objectives

The primary goals of the Biotech Kisan Scheme include:

1. Identifying and resolving local agricultural challenges.
2. Demonstrating and scaling up effective solutions.
3. Establishing a scientist-farmer interaction platform.
4. Offering training programs and exposure to advanced scientific practices.
5. Promoting the formation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) to strengthen market linkages.

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Biotech Kisan Scheme Impact

Since its launch, the Biotech-KISAN Scheme has delivered measurable benefits to the agriculture sector:

1. 52 Biotech-KISAN Hubs have been set up in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
2. Over three lakh farmers have directly and indirectly benefited, including 1.6 lakh farmers in 2022 alone.
3. More than 200 rural entrepreneurs have emerged, contributing to local economies.
4. Farmers have incorporated scientific innovations like the use of bio-fertilizers, improved seeds, and better livestock management practices.

Biotech Kisan Scheme Success Stories

1. The Biotech-KISAN Hub at Bihar Agriculture University, Sabour, helped revive a traditional crop, benefiting farmers and preserving biodiversity.
2. Women in Sundarbans region adopted scientific methods for goat and sheep rearing, facilitated by the West Bengal University of Animal & Fishery Sciences.
3. Utilization of rice fallows for pulse cultivation was promoted by the Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, leading to increased agricultural output in Andhra Pradesh.