Discuss the role of precision agriculture and smart irrigation systems in promoting water-use efficiency in India. What are the key challenges in their widespread adoption by small and marginal farmers?

Answer: Model Answer approach

There is only one component to the question. Technology’s role in advancing sustainable agricultural methods

• There are numerous ways to describe sustainable agriculture, but in the end, it aims to support farmers, resources, and communities by encouraging farming methods and practices that are profitable, environmentally responsible, and beneficial to communities. Modern agriculture is compatible with and enhanced by sustainable agriculture.

Overview: Give a brief definition of sustainable agriculture and discuss its significance. The main body Technology’s role in advancing sustainable agricultural methods.

• Precision agriculture monitors crops, soil, and weather using technologies like GPS, sensors, and drones. This lessens the impact of agriculture on the environment, maximizes resource use, and minimizes waste.
• Crops that are more resilient to pests and diseases, need less water, and can tolerate harsh climatic conditions have been made possible by developments in genetic engineering and biotechnology. For instance, GM crops like Bt cotton have decreased environmental contamination by reducing the need for chemical pesticides.

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Conclusion: Discuss some government initiatives in this area and write about how small and marginal farmers would benefit from sustainable farming techniques.

• Due to poverty, a lack of knowledge, and a lack of skills, the majority of India’s farmers are small and marginal farmers who are unable to exploit these technologies. To address these problems, the government has introduced a number of programs, such as PMKSY to increase water efficiency and Sub-Mission on Farm Mechanization to encourage farm mechanization. Along with reaching the objective of doubling farmers’ income, this can assist India in addressing issues related to food security.

Practice Question

Question: Most Indian farmers are small and marginal. In this context, discuss the challenges and opportunities in adopting sustainable agricultural technologies. Suggest government interventions that can bridge the gap.

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