The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi, yesterday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Amazon Kisan to combine the strengths of both organizations and create synergy between the two. The objective is to guide farmers on scientific cultivation of different crops for optimum yield and income.
The ICAR, an autonomous organization under the Department of Agricultural Research & Education (DARE), the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, will provide technological backstopping to farmers through Amazon’s network. The partnership, an official press release said, will improve farmers’ livelihood and boost crop yield. This MoU will help ensure access to high-quality fresh produce for consumers across India, including through Amazon Fresh.
Secretary DARE & ICAR Director General Himanshu Pathak emphasized upon secondary agriculture for better remuneration for farmers. He further highlighted the importance of critical inputs in agriculture and season-based crop plans. He said that ICAR will collaborate with Amazon for technologies, capacity building, and transfer of new knowledge.
The outcomes from a pilot project at Pune between ICAR-KVK and Amazon has motivated to further expand the collaboration to extend the precise agriculture practices developed through extensive research. Krishi Vigyan Kendras will strengthen a wider group of farmers by leveraging technological base through transfer of technology and capacity-building programmes.
ICAR and Amazon will work together on other farmer engagement programmes at Krishi Vigyan Kendras, conducting demonstrations, trials, and capacity-building initiatives to enhance farming practices and farm profitability.
Furthermore, Amazon will provide training support and assist farmers in marketing their produce through its online platform, facilitating direct connections with consumers.