EXECUTIVE SUMMARIES OF THE VARIOUS PROJECTS PROPOSED UNDER RKVY

Project - 1

PROJECT PROPOSAL ON

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT FOR ENHANCING LIVELIHOOD SECURITY THROUGH INTEGRATED FARMING SYSTEMS IN KARNATAKA

Preamble :

The National Development Council (NDC) in its 53^rd meeting held on 29^th May 2007 has resolved to launch a special additional central assistance scheme called “Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana” from 2007-08 in order to reorient the agriculture to meet the needs/demands of farmers.  The scheme is designed to incentivise the state to draw up plans for agriculture and allied sectors more comprehensively and set up investment in these sectors.  The Government of India has given an allocation of Rs. 169.67 crores to Karnataka during 2007-08.  The Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka prepared 16 projects with the help of UAS, Bangalore, Dharwad and ISEC. The same was sent to PMO, Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture and Cooperation and Deputy Chairman Planning Commission, Government of India. These projects have been developed has a result of the discussions with officers of the state Dept of Agriculture, Advisor  (Agriculture), Planning Commission, Government of India, Chairman, Rainfed Authority of India, Government of India and other specialists. In fact, all these projects have been peer reviewed and suggestions have been incorporated. These projects have also been presented before the Hon’ble Prime Minister while he was in Bangalore to review Karnataka’s agriculture and allied activities on 3^rd August 2007. This project has a time frame of five years. A provisional allocation of Rs. 10.00 crores has been made towards “Research and Development for Enhancing Livelihood Security Through Integrated Farming Systems in Karnataka”.  The details of the project, objectives, impact and the road map for implementing the project for the year 2007-08 is provided below :  

The budget is required in order to develop and demonstrate the economically viable Integrated Farming Modules for different agro-climatic zones, which ensure adequate income, employment and ecological and environmental security to the farmers on a sustainable basis.  In addition, training and an advanced Centre for Research on IFS will be established at UASB and UASD.

Executive summary 

Most of the districts in the state are constantly exposed to the harsh agro-climatic conditions. Some of the districts are highly drought prone receiving a rainfall of around 400 to 650 mm in 35 rainy days, erratically spread over from June to October. With shrinking natural resources, vagaries of nature and inefficient management of natural resources rural communities are exposed to the predicament of drought effects spanning socio-economic and bio-physical parameters, frequent crop failures, economic loss, leading to frustration, abandoning farming, migration of communities seeking better livelihood opportunities, shift to alternate income earning opportunities. The rainfed area’s are fraught with low productivity, poor farming systems integration, low income, low employment, low savings and investments, low level of knowledge, skill and attitude, low social mobilization, poor market linkages and value addition. Thus, in the targeted districts of rainfed area, livelihood security of farmers and vulnerable groups is at stake. Hence, this study focuses on enhancing livelihood security of the farmers and vulnerable groups through Integrated Farming System (IFS).   

The major objectives of the study include: Evaluation and identification of farming systems through participatory approach that ensures threshold level of income for the livelihood security. Development and evaluation of synergic effects and their actions associated with different farming systems. Developing appropriate institutional and market linkages including value addition for enhancing sustainability. Imparting training and capacity building of various stakeholders on IFS.

IFS & IGA Approaches

IFS approach as a bio-physical and socio-economic capsule has immense potential to redress instability of income, food and nutritional insecurity, unemployment, vulnerability and poverty of farmers’ as well as landless laborers. This urgency for addressing issues of livelihood security mainstreaming rural poor to the benefits of production technologies and development process in an integrated manner for sustainable rural livelihood security needs no emphasis. This calls for exploiting synergies through IFS.  Towards this endeavor, IFS for optimizing economic returns from resource allocation in the existing farming systems such as, totally rainfed, rainfed farming supported by Water Harvesting Structures (WHS) and rain fed farming supported by groundwater extraction is in order. In this action research study, the IFS are the lever to pave the way for growth and development for larger uptake. 

Research activities and work programme :

In order to evolve Sustainable-farming systems for all the 10 agro-climatic zones of the state, one-hectare IFS modules will be established for demonstration in 21 research stations under jurisdiction of UASB and 36 research stations under jurisdiction of UASD. The modules will be developed keeping in view the local resources endowments and prevailing cropping and livestock systems, which ensures thresh hold level of income, employment through out the year and nutritional security to farming families. In addition, an advanced center of research on IFS will be established at UASB as well as UASD.  IFS demonstration units will also be developed in each teaching campuses for educational purposes to train students on IFS. In all 176 taluks, a contiguous block of 100 ha area will be chosen, for IFS demonstration. The study team consists inter alia agronomists, plant protection specialists, horticulture specialists, economists, fishery scientist, animal husbandry specialist, and sericulture specialists drawn from research stations/KVKs. chosen. The active involvement of the University technologists with Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Self Help Groups (SHGs), Community Based Organizations (CBOs), line departments, market service providers, financial institutions, insurance organization and Panchayath Raj Institutions (PRIs) for developing synergies in the process of this action research is the focus of the study. In addition, the landless agricultural labourers will be considered for their development through Income Generating Activities (IGA).  

The project uses consortium approach utilizing the forward and backward linkages for augmenting food and livelihood security through enhancing production, addressing key concerns through key interventions, promoting value addition and welfare effects including gender empowerment.

Project - 2

PROJECT PROPOSAL ON STRENGTHENING AGRICULTURAL MARKETING AND AGRI-BUSINESS

MANAGEMENT IN KARNATAKA STATE

Preamble 

The National Development Council (NDC) in its 53^rd meeting held on 29^th May 2007 has resolved to launch a special additional central assistance scheme called “Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana” from 2007-08 in order to reorient the agriculture to meet the needs /demands of farmers.  The scheme is designed to provide incentives to the state to draw up plans for agriculture and allied sectors more comprehensively and set up investment in these sectors.  The Government of India has given an allocation of 169.97 crores to Karnataka during 2007-08.  The Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka prepared 16 projects with the help of UAS Bangalore, Dharwad and ISEC.  The same was sent to PMO, Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture and Cooperation, Deputy Chairman Planning Commission, Government of India.  These projects have been developed as a result of the discussions with officers of the state Department of Agriculture, Advisor (Agriculture) Planning Commission, Government of India, Rainfed Authority of India, Government of India and other specialists.  In fact, all these projects have been reviewed and suggestions have been incorporated.  These projects have also been presented before the Hon’ble Prime Minister while he was in Bangalore to review Karnataka’s agriculture and allied activities on 3^rd August 2007.  This project has a time frame of five years.  A provisional allocation of Rs. 10 crores has been made towards the project entitled “Strengthening agricultural marketing and agri-business Management in Karnataka State”. The details of the project, objectives, impact and the road map for implementing the project for the year 2007-08 is provided below.

Introduction:

Agricultural Marketing is critical for the development of agricultural sector in general and to realize the growth rate of 4% envisaged during the 11^th plan period in particular. Globalization and domestic market reforms have resulted in transformation of subsistence farming to increased commercialization and agri-business. This calls for strengthening agricultural marketing and agri-business management in Karnataka for the reasons indicated below: 

1)    Bulk of farmers constitute small and marginal.

2)    Marketable surplus is small.

3)    New marketing formats require graded produce.

4)    Market information and intelligence is lacking.

5)    Acute shortage of manpower in agri-business sector.

The project will comprise of the following components: 

1)    Agri Export and WTO Knowledge.

2)    Market Intelligence and Market Led Extension.

3)    Quality Control and Food Testing.

4)    Human resource and entrepreneurship development. 

Preparing small and marginal farmers to participate in the fast changing Agri Marketing formats like Contract farming, Futures trading, Food retailing, Processing, Exports etc are to be addressed. The critical issues in strengthening agricultural marketing and agri-business management are to train the farmers on promotion of agri export, Quality control, Market Intelligence, Manpower and Entrepreneurship development through multidisciplinary approach.

Objectives:

1.    Training farmers on good marketing practices

2.    Strengthening of forward and backward linkages

3.    Training farmers on WTO regulations

4.    Dissemination of periodic market intelligence

5.    Strengthening market led extension

6.    Strengthening facilities for quality control

7.    Developing entrepreneurship among small and marginal farmers

8.    Man power development through offering MBA (ABM) programme and need based training

Outcome and Road Map 

The project will directly benefit the farming community especially the small and marginal farmers in realizing additional income. Planned production, market intelligence and quality control will help in increased exports and direct economic benefits to farmers. The market led extension will enable the knowledge and skill formation. Finally the human resource development will bring in professional management in agri-business sector. The overall objective is removal of rural poverty.

The project will be implemented in the Department of Agricultural Marketing, Cooperation and Business Management, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bangalore. The total budget for the year 2007-08 will be Rs.10 crore of which Rs. 3 crores will be utilized for strengthening manpower in Agri-Business management. The remaining Rs. 7 crores will be used for construction of academic block consisting of class rooms , video conference hall, grading hall, food testing and quality control laboratory, pesticide testing laboratory, market led extension and payment of salary of technical personnel.

Project - 3

PROJECT PROPOSAL ON

STRENGTHENING OF TRANSFER OF TECHNOLOGY SYSTEM IN KARNATAKA

Preamble :

The National Development Council (NDC) in its 53^rd meeting held on 29^th May 2007 has resolved to launch a special additional central assistance scheme called “Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana” from 2007-08 in order to reorient the agriculture to meet the needs/demands of farmers.  The scheme is designed to incentivise the state to draw up plans for agriculture and allied sectors more comprehensively and set up investment in these sectors.  The Government of India has given an allocation of Rs. 169.67 crores to Karnataka during 2007-08.  The Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka prepared 16 projects with the help of UAS Bangalore, Dharwad and ISEC. The same was sent to PMO, Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture and Cooperation and Deputy Chairman Planning Commission, Government of India. These projects have been developed has a result of the discussions with officers of the state Dept of Agriculture, Advisor  (Agriculture), Planning Commission, Government of India, Chairman, Rainfed Authority of India, Government of India and other specialists. In fact, all these projects have been peer reviewed and suggestions have been incorporated. These projects have also been presented before the Hon’ble Prime Minister while he was in Bangalore to review Karnataka’s agriculture and allied activities on 3^rd August 2007. This project has a time frame of five years. A provisional allocation of Rs. 20.00 crores has been made towards “Strengthening of Transfer of Technology System in Karnataka”.  The details of the project, objectives, impact and the road map for implementing the project for the year 2007-08 is provided below :

Need of the Study :

Supporting the farmers through government efforts extending technical support to the farming sector of the rural society, a new model of providing technical inputs to the rural people become the need of the hour.  The production of agricultural goods is becoming both capital as well as technology intensive.  Our farmers are not only technologically but also qualitatively equipped to avail the opportunity by competing with the quality standards and other norms. All advanced agricultural economies are knowledge-based economies.  Hence, there is a need to make all our efforts to broaden the knowledge base of our farmers to enable them to make the optimum use of new technologies. 

Importance :

Our extension services need to gear up for fulfilling the demands of credible information at a much faster rate.  In this direction the University has to provide solutions to the problems of agriculture and allied fields of the farming community through continuous research and extension to the rural people of the state.  The information, advice and other services offered by the Transfer of Technology (TOT) systems need to be tailored to the needs and aspirations of the farmers.

Objectives :

The transfer of technology will be strengthened through ICT, transfer of latest farming technologies from lab to land most expeditiously using ICT at hobli level through public- private partnership by involving NGOs, the community based organizations and public organizations. As a result of effective implementation of the project.  The yield gap in crop production will narrow down and will provide the food security to the farm families.  Strengthening the Transfer of Technologies system would supplement and compliment the efforts of the Development Departments in Technology Transfer which will ultimately push the agricultural growth. 

Expected out come :

Strengthening of multidisciplinary teams at district level will support the Raitha Samparka Kendras (RSKs). The team would provide technical support.  The agriculture could integrate with other enterprises to support and supplement the system.  This could be possible through the Integrated Farming System Approach, which will increase the sustainable productivity due to complementary and supplementary effects of crop and live stock production. This in turn would increase   per capita income of the farm families as well as provide the food security and economic security of them.

Action plan 2007-08 :

The proposed budgetary provision of Rs. 20.00 crores will be utilized towards :  

The basic technological facilities along with AV equipments, kiosks, all season weather forecasting system and museum will be developed.  The efforts on establishing technological backstopping mechanisms will be continued.

Project - 4

PROJECT PROPOSAL ON

ESTABLISHMENT OF VILLAGE KNOWLEDGE CENTERS IN KARNATAKA

Preamble :

The National Development Council (NDC) in its 53^rd meeting held on 29^th May 2007 has resolved to launch a special additional central assistance scheme called “Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana” from 2007-08 in order to reorient the agriculture to meet the needs/demands of farmers.  The scheme is designed to incentivise the state to draw up plans for agriculture and allied sectors more comprehensively and set up investment in these sectors.  The Government of India has given an allocation of Rs. 169.67 crores to Karnataka during 2007-08.  The Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka prepared 16 projects with the help of UAS Bangalore, Dharwad and ISEC. The same was sent to PMO, Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture and Cooperation and Deputy Chairman Planning Commission, Government of India. These projects have been developed has a result of the discussions with officers of the state Dept of Agriculture, Advisor  (Agriculture), Planning Commission, Government of India, Chairman, Rainfed Authority of India, Government of India and other specialists. In fact, all these projects have been peer reviewed and suggestions have been incorporated. These projects have also been presented before the Hon’ble Prime Minister while he was in Bangalore to review Karnataka’s agriculture and allied activities on 3^rd August 2007. This project has a time frame of five years. A provisional allocation of Rs. 8.00 crores has been made towards “Establishment of Village Knowledge Centers in Karnataka”.  The details of the project, objectives, impact and the road map for implementing the project for the year 2007-08 is provided below :

Need of the Study :

The social impacts of ICT are   strengthening the rural economy by creating employment opportunities, revising the tide of rural migration and improving access to information and knowledge, creation of new generation of IT removal of functional barriers   between government and citizen for effective governance, empowerment of rural poor and providing necessary infrastructure.

Importance :

The National Commission of farmers has recommended the establishment of Village Knowledge Centers (VKCs) all over the country using modern information and communication technology (ICT) to ensure the benefits of digital revolution and knowledge connectivity to 6 lakh Indian villages by 2007.   This can be achieved by mobilizing the power of partnership particularly between the government, industry and non governmental sectors.  Thus, an effort is being made to provide technological, financial, organizational capacity to the un-reached farmers.   It is proposed to establish VKCs for sustainable growth which provides quality, timely and reliable information to the farmers.    This will be achieved through internet connectivity, video conferencing facility and community radio facilities.   The information services provided by these centers will also include information on government entitlements, employment opportunities, weather forecast, health and current market prices.   Rural yellow pages available through on line provide various directory information too.

Objectives :

VKCs will be established to serve the farming community under the technological guidance support, and sustained assistance of both the Agricultural Universities in the State with the following objectives.

To establish  VKCs  at RSK level, to connect VKCs  to KVKs through expert centers at district level, develop need based location specific digital curriculum development for effective implementation, capacity building of stakeholders  for efficient utility and to evaluate the benefits derived from VKCs on production, productivity and socio economic status of the farmers.

Expected out come :

With the help of interactive video conferencing facilities the technology will reach many villages through single window delivery mechanism against time and space.  It is proposed to establish 132 VKCs under UAS, Bangalore and 132 VKCs under UAS, Dharwad.    The proposed project covers 176 blocks distributed in 749 Raitha Samparka Kendras (RSKs).  The assistance for technological backstopping will be utilized by using   14 Extension Education Units (EEUs) and 26 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) spread over the State of Karnataka.   

Action plan for 2007-08

          The proposed budgetary provision of Rs. 8.00 crores will be utilized towards : 

1.    Documentation of information on latest production technology

2.    Maintaining required data base that would be regularly up-dated

3.    Establishing interactive video conferencing from one to one, one to many

4.    Providing market intelligence, weather forecasting and providing infrastructure facilities 

Project - 5

PROJECT PROPOSAL ON

RESEARCH INSTITUTE ON ORGANIC FARMING

Preamble :

          The National Development Council (NDC) in its 53^rd meeting held on 29^th May 2007 has resolved to launch a special additional central assistance scheme called “Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana” from 2007-08 in order to reorient the agriculture to meet the needs/demands of farmers.  The scheme is designed to incentivise the state to draw up plans for agriculture and allied sectors more comprehensively and set up investment in these sectors.  The Government of India has given an allocation of Rs. 169.67 crores to Karnataka during 2007-08.  The Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka prepared 16 projects with the help of UAS Bangalore, Dharwad and ISEC. The same was sent to PMO, Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture and Cooperation and Deputy Chairman Planning Commission, Government of India. These projects have been developed has a result of the discussions with officers of the state Dept of Agriculture, Advisor  (Agriculture), Planning Commission, Government of India, Chairman, Rainfed Authority of India, Government of India and other specialists. In fact, all these projects have been peer reviewed and suggestions have been incorporated. These projects have also been presented before the Hon’ble Prime Minister while he was in Bangalore to review Karnataka’s agriculture and allied activities on 3^rd August 2007. This project has a time frame of five years. A provisional allocation of              Rs. 7.00 crores has been made towards “Research Institute on Organic Farming”.  The details of the project, objectives, impact and the road map for implementing the project for the year 2007-08 is provided below :

Importance :

          Sustainable agriculture is receiving lot of attention world over by the farmers, scientists, administrators and policy makers.  Mainly four factors necessitates sustainability in agriculture are – fast degradation of natural resources like, soil, water and bio-diversity, cost of production, deterioration in quality of food and environmental pollution leading to health hazards.  The sustainability of present level of agriculture is at stake.  The role of organic farming has greater linkage with sustainability.   

          Organic agriculture is a holistic crop production and management system which promotes and enhances agro-ecosystem health, bio-diversity and biological cycles with sustained productivity, and farm income.  It encourages conservation and development of on-farm natural resources, their optimum utilization through farming practices and effective recycling on and around the farms in such a manner so as to meet the needs of present and future generations to come.

          Therefore, for future development and food security of the nation, working with farm families, farm resources and farming systems is essential.  Further more, educating the farm families for adopting organic farming and its benefits is an uphill task of the Government. Lack of full pledged scientific cultivation practices is the main bottle neck for whole farm conversion of conventional to organic farm.

Objectives :

1.    Scientific validation and updating of organic farming practices and local wisdom

2.    To develop location specific, diversified organic farming practices and land use systems to sustain in natural resources, enhance the productivity and farm income

3.    To carry out location specific, demand driven farmers centric and farmers participatory adoptive research on organic farming

4.    To provide value addition and market linkage for organic products

5.    To promote capacity building to organic stakeholders

Expected out come :

          An integrated organic production technology will be developed in a farming system which facilitates to combine different enterprises which can compliment and supplement each other.  The indigenous traditional knowledge will be amalgamated with innovative organic production practices to enhance the productivity.  The proposal envisages various researchable issues in organic production, protection, processing, value addition, economics and marketing of organically grown products.  In the process, the codex Alimentereus and NSOP guidelines will be followed.  The human resource development activities viz., creating awareness and capacity building will be undertaken to participatory scientists, collaborators, promoters, processing and market organizations.

Action plan 2007-08 :

          A budget of Rs. 7.00 crores will be utilized during the year 2007-08 to carry out the following activities :

1.    On-farm participatory organic production blocks will be established 4 in each district

2.    Multi-disciplinary adaptive and applied research will be initiated

3.    The research and quality control laboratories will be established at main and sub-centres

4.    The large scale production units of organic manures, bio-pesticides and bio-fertilizers will be established to promote organic conversion

Project - 6

PROJECT PROPOSAL ON

ADVANCE CENTRE ON WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Preamble :

The National Development Council (NDC) in its 53rd meeting held on 29th May 2007 has resolved to launch a special additional central assistance scheme called “Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana” from 2007-08 in order to reorient the agriculture to meet the needs/demands of farmers.  The scheme is designed to incentivise the state to draw up plans for agriculture and allied sectors more comprehensively and set up investment in these sectors.  The Government of India has given an allocation of Rs. 169.67 crores to Karnataka during 2007-08.  The Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka prepared 16 projects with the help of UAS Bangalore, Dharwad and ISEC. The same was sent to PMO, Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture and Cooperation and Deputy Chairman Planning Commission, Government of India. These projects have been developed has a result of the discussions with officers of the state Dept of Agriculture, Advisor  (Agriculture), Planning Commission, Government of India, Chairman, Rainfed Authority of India, Government of India and other specialists. In fact, all these projects have been peer reviewed and suggestions have been incorporated. These projects have also been presented before the Hon’ble Prime Minister while he was in Bangalore to review Karnataka’s agriculture and allied activities on 3rd August 2007. This project has a time frame of five years. A provisional allocation of Rs. 10.00 crores has been made towards “Advance Centre on Water Resource Management”.  The details of the project, objectives, impact and the road map for implementing the project for the year 2007-08 is provided below :

Importance :

          The demand for water needs for different purpose may increase, thereby the water availability for agriculture may come done from 70 per cent at present 250 per cent by 2025 AD.  More over increase in irrigated area become imperative to enhance the overall agricultural production in order to meet the demand of food, fibre and fodder for the growing populations.  In this regard the former Hon’ble President of India                               Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in his address to the Legislative Assembly on the 50 years of formation of Karnataka also emphasized efficient management of water resources for enhancing the agricultural production.  In addition, there is a need to give greater emphasis on development of appropriate water management technologies and implementation of action oriented research and developmental activities to improve the water productivity through efficient and conservative management of water resources.

Objectives :

Ø     Studies on efficient water management and utilization through soil – crop – water – weather relationship for higher productivity to increase intensity and diversification of crops.

Ø     Studies on Micro-irrigation system under different water availability, multiple use of water, soil health and amelioration.

Ø     Studies on policy issues, economic impact, inter institutional linkages, technology delivery system and capacity building.

Ø     Pilot project on piped water supply, aerobic rice cultivation, transfer of improved water management technologies and human resource development through large-scale demonstration and intensive training programmes.

Expected out come :

Strengthening of advanced center on water resource management helps in improving the irrigation efficiency by implementing improved irrigation schedul8ing practices and techniques through action oriented on station and on farm research and developmental activities.  It also helps in equitable distribution of canal water, tank irrigation water and well irrigation.  Thereby, helps in sustained water supply and expansion of irrigated area by 30-40 per cent and not only enhance the crop and cropping system productivity by 20-25 per cent but, also helps in improving the soil health.  In addition, the participatory mode of research and developmental activities and capacity building of different stakeholders helps in creating awareness among the water users to use the available water more efficiently and improve the system efficiency and also creates more job opportunity, strengthening of agro-based industries and supports local market.  Thereby, the agricultural growth rate can be expected to another 4-5 per cent.

Action plan for 2007-08 :

          During the year 2007-08 a provisional allocation of Rs. 10.00 crores made will be utilized for the following activities – Collection and creation of data base on water resources in Karnataka.  Initiation of efficient water management, research activities including micro-irrigation system.  Procurement of gadgets and equipments required for implementation of the on-farm and action orientated participatory water management programmes.  Identification and selection of water users associations for implementation of participatory irrigation water management for improving the system efficiency.

Project - 7

PROJECT PROPOSAL ON

CENTRE FOR AGRICULTURAL BIOTECHNOLOGY

The National Development Council (NDC) in its 53^rd meeting held on 29^th May 2007 has resolved to launch a special additional central assistance scheme called “Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana” from 2007-08 in order to reorient the agriculture to meet the needs/demands of farmers.  The scheme is designed to incentivise the state to draw up plans for agriculture and allied sectors more comprehensively and set up investment in these sectors.  The Government of India has given an allocation of Rs. 169.67 crores to Karnataka during 2007-08.  The Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka prepared 16 projects with the help of UAS Bangalore, Dharwad and ISEC. The same was sent to PMO, Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture and Cooperation and Deputy Chairman Planning Commission, Government of India. These projects have been developed has a result of the discussions with officers of the state Dept of Agriculture, Advisor  (Agriculture), Planning Commission, Government of India, Chairman, Rainfed Authority of India, Government of India and other specialists. In fact, all these projects have been peer reviewed and suggestions have been incorporated. These projects have also been presented before the Hon’ble Prime Minister while he was in Bangalore to review Karnataka’s agriculture and allied activities on 3^rd August 2007. This project has a time frame of five years. A provisional allocation of Rs. 10.00 crores has been made towards “Centre for Agricultural Biotechnology”.  The details of the project, objectives, impact and the road map for implementing the project for the year 2007-08 is provided below :

Introduction

       Biotechnology is providing a thrust for improving crop productivity and can be realized through:

1.    Several research initiatives in different disciplines need to be developed in a well focused mission mode programme.

2.    Being a recombinant technology, there is a need to focus on technically sound and legally acceptable translational research. Currently the lack of this approach is a bottleneck in realizing the potential of biotechnology for agriculture. 

3.    Besides training in modern biology there is also a need for man power in regulatory issues are per the requirements of the Cartagena protocol.   

Further, progress in this direction is critically dependent on a continuous process of enhancing our skills and knowledge in agricultural biotechnology through Innovation, the knowledge thus generated should be carried forward and developed into products through Translation and also ensure that the skewed distribution of knowledge is corrected through Human Resource Development for indigenizing and sustaining the pace of research in the field of agricultural biotechnology in the state.

Objectives of the Centre

Keeping the National Development Commission’s focus on agriculture development the centre would strive to pursue the following thematic areas of research with a view to enhance the productivity of the agriculture sector: 

a.     Quality traits of crop plants such as Fe, Zn, oil and vitamin A

b.    Abiotic and biotic stress tolerance mechanisms in crop plants

c.     Post harvest preservation and technology

d.    Green energy and microbial biotechnology to prospect the rich microbial biota

e.    Exploiting the potential of Bio-farming and the production of useful pharmaceuticals

f.       Prospecting for novel genes and products of utility in agriculture and medicine

g.    Development and exploitation of tissue culture

Impact and road map:

Unprecedented opportunities available for the modification of crop plants by biotechnological means have greatly enhanced the chances of mitigating serious hurdles in improving crop productivity.  Two important approaches viz., molecular breeding and transgenics together provide a wide repertoire of tools to counter challenges of crop productivity.  It is hoped that, in the long run, biotechnological interventions would help in alleviating problems of stagnating agricultural productivity, rural poverty and nutritional security.   

In Karnataka 112 lakhs ha of area covering nearly 74 per cent of total cultivated area is under semi-arid tracts.  The entire area is prone to repeated drought besides facing innumerable pest and disease problems.  The drought related losses can be as immense as 60 per cent of the total yields in almost every crop grown in this area.  However by developing transgenics and improving desired traits for Biotic and Abiotic stress tolerance together can substantially mitigate the drought and enhance the productivity of important dry land crops.  We anticipate a benefit of close to 20 per cent for every farmer who adopts this technology in drought prone conditions. 

The proposed budgetary provision of Rs. 10.00 crores will be utilized towards the basic technological facilities like Biotech Innovation Centre, Translation Research Centre, contractual services and contingencies for chemicals and other consusumables for implementation of the project.

Project - 8

PROJECT PROPOSAL ON

PARTICIPATORY SEED PRODUCTION FOR FOOD SECURITY AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC STABILITY OF FARMING COMMUNITY IN KARNATAKA

Preamble: 

The National Development Council (NDC) in its 53^rd meeting held on 29^th May 2007 has resolved to launch a special additional central assistance scheme called “Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana” from 2007-08 in order to reorient the agriculture to meet the needs/demands of farmers.  The scheme is designed to incentivise the state to draw up plans for agriculture and allied sectors more comprehensively and set up investment in these sectors.  The Government of India has given an allocation of Rs. 169.67 crores to Karnataka during 2007-08.  The Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka prepared 16 projects with the help of UAS Bangalore, Dharwad and ISEC. The same was sent to PMO, Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture and Cooperation and Deputy Chairman Planning Commission, Government of India.  These projects have been developed has a result of the discussions with officers of the state Dept of Agriculture, Advisor (Agriculture, Planning Commission, Government of India, Chairman, Rainfed Authority of India, Government of India and other specialists.  In fact, all these projects have been peer reviewed and suggestions have been incorporated.  These projects have also been presented before the Hon’ble Prime Minister while he was in Bangalore to review Karnataka’s agriculture and allied activities on 3^rd August 2007.  This project has a time frame of five years.  A provisional allocation of Rs. 10 crores has been made towards “Participatory Seed Production Programme for Food Security and to Improve Socio-Economic Status of Farming Community in Karnataka”. The details of the project, objectives, impact and the road map for implementing the project for the year 2007-08 is provided below:

Importance:

Karnataka state with diverse agro-climatic conditions has unique features of growing majority of the field and horticultural crops to achieve nutritional security of the population. However, the productivity levels of different crops are below the All India average in majority of the crops. To achieve significant enhancement in productivity of different crops, genetic enhancement through varietal improvement has been the main focus in national and state public and private institutions. Many improved varieties/ hybrids have been developed and released by both public and private sectors for the benefit of the farmers. It has been demonstrated in majority of the crops, that quality seed of improved   varieties results in yield increase of 25-30%. However, there is wide gap between demand and supply of quality seed in the state. As a result seed replacement rate continues to be much below (2-10%) the desired level of 25 and 35% in self and cross pollinated crops respectively. Most of the private sector companies concentrate on high cost low volume seeds grown by large farmers on limited scale. Majority of the small and marginal farmers require high volume low cost seeds that are neglected even by public sector seed producing organizations. All this lead to non-availability of quality seeds to the farmers at the time of sowing. Alternatively, the farmer use his own farm saved seeds of less potential traditional local varieties resulting in low productivity.

          To mitigate these problems, farmers’ participatory seed production programme is planned in the proposed project with the following objectives.

Objectives:

1.    Demonstration of improved varieties/hybrids and technologies on farmers field.

2.    Large scale seed production and distribution at reasonable price through farmers’ participatory seed production programme.

3.    To upgrade the quality of seed produce through seed processing and seed treatment.

4.    Quality control of the produced seeds by seed testing

5.    Human resource development by imparting training to the field staff and farmers on seed production and quality control.

6.    Employment generation at village level by involving rural youths and school drop outs in seed production activities.

Expected outcome:

The wide gap between demand and supply of quality seed of improved varieties/hybrids can be bridged with the farmers’ participation in seed production under seed village concept. This helps to demonstrate and saturate the selected potential seed villages with quality seeds of improved varieties/hybrids of major crops. The implementation of this programme by UAS, Dharwad and UAS, Bangalore universities on experimental basis has been most successful. The university scientists monitor the seed production programme and there would be close linkage of farmers and scientists for technology transfer and successful quality seed production. The potential seed villages for each crop are selected and the farmers will be trained in different techniques of quality seed production and post-harvest handling operations. The universities supply the genetically pure seeds of improved varieties for further seed production. The district wise infrastructure requirement at different research stations of the universities need to be developed for harvesting/threshing, seed processing, seed storage and seed transportation. The trainings and field days/melas are included in the proposal for wide spread dissemination of seed production skills, impact of quality seeds in agricultural production and improved varieties/hybrids. The local rural youth and women will be involved in human resource development and rural employment is generated in seed production, processing, testing, and transportation and distribution activities. This would help to increase the availability of quality seed of improved varieties/hybrids in each district to increase productivity by 15-20%. This would be the initial step to achieve and sustain about 4% annual agricultural growth in the state for improving socio-economic status and nutritional security of our farming community.

Action plan for the year 2007-08:

          The total outlay of Rs.10.00 crores will be utilized for technological facilities initially during the 2007-08 in six potential districts to produce quality seeds of major crops under participatory seed production programme. This would strengthen the ongoing seed production activities of both universities which were planned with a target of one lakh quintals of quality seeds during 2007-08. further, this will strengthen the production and supply of basic seeds namely breeder and foundation seeds to other seed producing agencies like NSC, KSSC, KOF, private seed organization etc., for large scale production  quality seeds.

Project - 9

PROJECT PROPOSAL ON

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT OF BIOFUELS TO ENHANCE PRODUCTIVITY, ENERGY AND LIVELIHOOD SECURITY OF FARMERS IN KARNATAKA

Preamble :

The National Development Council (NDC) in its 53^rd meeting held on 29^th May 2007 has resolved to launch a special additional central assistance scheme called “Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana” from 2007-08 in order to reorient the agriculture to meet the needs/demands of farmers.  The scheme is designed to incentivise the state to draw up plans for agriculture and allied sectors more comprehensively and set up investment in these sectors.  The Government of India has given an allocation of Rs. 169.67 crores to Karnataka during 2007-08.  The Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka prepared 16 projects with the help of UAS Bangalore, Dharwad and ISEC. The same was sent to PMO, Hon’ble Union Minister of Agriculture and Cooperation and Deputy Chairman Planning Commission, Government of India. These projects have been developed has a result of the discussions with officers of the state Dept of Agriculture, Advisor  (Agriculture), Planning Commission, Government of India, Chairman, Rainfed Authority of India, Government of India and other specialists. In fact, all these projects have been peer reviewed and suggestions have been incorporated. These projects have also been presented before the Hon’ble Prime Minister while he was in Bangalore to review Karnataka’s agriculture and allied activities on 3^rd August 2007. This project has a time frame of five years. A provisional allocation of Rs. 10 crores has been made towards “Research and Development of Biofuels to Enhance Productivity, Energy and Livelihood Security of Farmers in Karnataka”.  The details of the project, objectives, impact and the road map for implementing the project for the year 2007-08 is provided below :

Importance :

          The demand for petroleum products in the country has risen from a modest level of 3.3 MT in 1950-51 to 65.5 MT in 1994-95.  The current demand is more than 100MT per year which create oil pool deficit of more than 15,000 crore rupees. The former President of India Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in his address to the Legislative Assembly on the 50 years of formation of the Karnataka, also emphasized on the security of energy and bio-fuels.  The only solution to meet the present energy crisis without affecting the ecological balance is the use of renewable energy sources.  The oil yielding tree species take prime spot as it primarily addresses the energy crisis.  For complying the above suggestion there is vast scope to introduce biofuel species in Karnataka.  Out of total geographical area of 190 lakh ha the state has 46 lakhs (24.6%) waste lands.  These areas can be reclaimed by taking up of mass plantation of bio fuel species.  This will help to supplement the income level of farmers there by enhancing their livelihood security. 

Objectives :

          The present proposal encompasses the different activities like survey, collection and evaluation of biofuel species for adaptability and economic feasibility, genetic improvement for seed yield and oil percent, standardization of protocol for mass multiplication, development of agro-techniques for higher yields, establishment of large scale planting stocks and model plantation, development of cost effective expelling and esterification units and to create market network.

Expected out come :

          During the course of implementation of the project elite plant types in different biofuel species will be identified.  Simultaneously large scale quality planting material will be produced.  Yield potential of these species will be enhanced through different breeding techniques like, hybridization, mutation and irradiation.  Nursery and mass multiplication techniques will be standardized.  The various agro-techniques towards enhancing productivity will be developed.  A modal plantation of biofuels will be established (5-10 ha each) in each taluka with all standard practices.  The oil expelling unit of suitable capacity will be established at taluka level.  The crude oil so obtained will be transesterified at district level in esterification units established at district head quarters.  Marketing network on milk federation mode will be established so that the growers are fully involved.  Training programme on nursery techniques, plantation establishment, harvest and post harvest techniques, expelling esterification and usage of biofuel will be conducted.

Action plan for 2007-08 :

          During the year 2007-08 a provisional allocation of Rs. 10.00 crores made will be utilized for the following activities - Candidate plus trees in important species viz., pongamia, jatropha, mahua, neem and simarouba will be identified.  The identified trees will be utilized for mass multiplication vegetatively.  The vegetative propagation and mass multiplication techniques will be standardized.  Model nurseries and plantations will be established at taluka level for species suitable to that region.  A home scale level expelling unit will be developed so that the crushing is done at farmers’ level.  Selected farmers in each taluka will be trained on different aspects of biofuel cultivation.

Budget utilization for 2007-08 :

Recurring Contingency

Project - 10

PROPOSAL ON “CREATION OF POST HARVEST INFRASTRUCTURE IN KARNATAKA TO INCREASE AGRICULTURE / HORTICULTURE EXPORTS”

Background: 

Karnataka State is predominantly an agriculture State with 24% of the GDP derived from agriculture sector. Karnataka occupies a prominent position in the horticulture map of India. The total area under horticulture crops in the state is estimated at 15.60 lakh hectares and the annual production is estimated at 103.928 Lakh Mts. During the joint review of the agriculture sector of Karnataka carried out on 3^rd August 2007 at Bangalore under the Chairmanship of The Hon’ble Prime Minister, several key thrust areas were identified for the rejuvenation of the sector in the State to achieve the objectives set forth in the National Development Council Resolution of the 29^th May 2007. During the review The Hon’ble Prime Minister has stressed the urgent need for the creation of post harvest infrastructure facilities in order to add value to farmer’ produce, increase shelf life, reduce wastage (presently it is estimated at about 30-40% due to lack of post harvest facilities in the country) and increase exports – all leading to better income to farmers and add valuable foreign exchange to the nation’s exchequer. This was also highlighted in the State’s recent ‘AGRICULTURE POLICY OF KARNATAKA-2006”.

It is in this regard that KAPPEC has submitted a proposal for the creation of post harvest infrastructure facilities in the State in order to exploit the potential of the sector for the benefit of farmers. The brief details as under:- 

·        Post harvest infrastructure facility for the export of Pomegranates and other horticulture produce from Kushtagi and surrounding areas – The total financial implication is Rs. 833.05 Lakhs

·        Establishment of Fruit and Vegetable Processing (IQF) facility at Hubli under Public Private Partnership (PPP) model – The total financial implication is Rs.1058 Lakhs. The Share of KAPPEC for the investment is Rs.78 Lakhs

·        Establishment of cold chain facility for the export of Grapes, Pomegranates and other horticulture produce from Bidar and Surrounding areas – The financial outlay is Rs. 417 Lakhs

·        Establishment of Vanilla processing units in the districts of Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada, Shimoga and Chickmagalur – The financial implication is Rs.250 Lakhs

·        Establishment of a receiving, grading, washing, pack house, pre cooling and cold storage for the export of Mangoes from Dharwad and surrounding areas – The total financial implication is Rs.400 Lakhs.

·        Establishment of an integrated post harvest complex for the export of Mangoes from Srinivaspur and surrounding areas of Kolar district – The total financial outlay is Rs.1500 Lakhs

·        Establishment of Grape Processing and Wine Manufacturing Facility at Bijapur – The total fund requirement is Rs.1200 Lakhs

·        Establishment of Post Harvest Infrastructure Facility for fruit crops in Chitradurga – The total financial implication is Rs. 190 Lakhs

·        Establishment of Post Harvest Storage facility at Chamarajnagar – The financial implication would be Rs. 100 Lakhs.

·        Establishment of Tur processing Unit (Dal Mill) of the capacity of 100 Mts per day at Gulbarga – The total financial requirement is Rs. 2538 Lakhs.

FUNDING PATTERN: 

The aggregate total financial outlay for the above infrastructure would Rs. 7506.05 Lakhs. It is proposed to seek financial assistance from the Government of India as special grant under Hon’ble PM’s package and the pattern of finance will be in the ratio of 90:10 between Government of India and Government of Karnataka respectively. As such we seek a financial assistance of Rs.6755.45 Lakhs from the Government of India.

IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE 

The above mentioned infrastructure facilities will be established in a phased manner over a period of 3 years.  

SOCIO ECONOMIC BENEFITS

·        Overall improvement in farmers’ income

·        Redressal of regional imbalance

·        Valuable foreign exchange to nation’s exchequer due to increase in exports.

·        Employment in rural and semi urban areas

·        Improvement in local economy threby raising the standard of living of farmers

·        Establishment of allied industries in the areas like packaging, transport and other supplies required by the infrastructure units.

·        Reduction in post harvest losses and value addition to farmers’ produce.

·        Promotion of contract farming.

·        Additional area under cultivation of high value horticulture crops which have potential for exports.

·        Accessibility to credit for the small and marginal farmers due to better processing and marketing facilities.

Project - 11

PROJECT PROPOSAL ON ESTABLISHMENT OF SEEDS PROCESSING UNITS

Consequent to actions initiated to improve the Certified Seeds Production now with around 20% SRR to 40% SRR in the next 10 years with incentive to the Certified Seeds producers would mean doubling additional seeds production and handling which  requires increased infrastructure facilities.

In order to strengthen the infrastructure facilities for Seeds Processing and Seeds storage it is proposed  to set up 12 Seeds Processing Units by Karnataka State Seeds Corporation at a cost of Rs.18 Crore (Approximately at Rs.1.50 Crore per Seeds Processing unit.) for processing, Seeds Treatment, Seeds Testing,  Certification of Certified and Foundation Seeds.   Also 2 processing Units each by UAS, Bangalore and Dharwad.  Each Processing Unit is of 20,000 Qtls capacity thus, the additional capacity of the Processing Unit would be 3.60  lakh qtls.  This excluding Cotton, Groundnut and Vegetable seeds is expected to meet the requirement of additional seeds production contemplated under the project along with existing available processing capacity in the State.  The creation of additional infrastructure facility for handling groundnut and cotton would need additional financial assistance.   

The additional installation of Groundnut processing Plant would cost additional cost of Rs.10.00 lakhs and installation of Vegetable Seeds Processing Unit would be Rs.20.00 lakhs wherever installed.  The installation of cotton ginning and delinting facility would cost additional Rs.200.00 lakhs.

PLACE OF SETTING OF PROCESSING UNITS BY KARNATAKA STATE SEEDS CORPORATION LIMITED:

The University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwar and Bangalore would set up two processing Units each for Processing, Seeds Treatment, Seeds Testing of parental line of Hybrids and Breeder Seeds. 

PLACE OF SETTING OF PROCESSING UNITS BY UAS, BANGALORE:

I. ARS, Gulbarga

II. RARS, Bijapur

PLACE OF SETTING OF PROCESSING UNITS BY UAS,  DHARWAD:

I. Mandya

II. Honnavile

PLAN AND ESTIMATION FOR SEEDS PROCESSING UNITS:

The Modal Layout Plan for proposed infrastructure Development and estimated cost for building and machineries for Seeds Processing Units are enclosed at Annexure-3 & 4.  This Layout may differ from place to place depending on availability of land and its size and shape and also the crops/ varieties produced in each of the Districts.  Each Seeds Processing Unit are estimated to be installed at a cost of Rs.1.50 Crore.

ESTIMATED COST AND REQUIRED FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE:

The total estimated project cost is Rs.24.00 Crores and the financial assistance Macro-mode / Work plan wherein Govt. of India would provide financial assistance of 90% of the Project cost and 10% would be contributed by Govt. of Karnataka.  The Project is contemplated to be completed in two years, so as to enhance Seeds Production activity thereby ensuring increased productivity of Agriculture crops as contemplated in the Joint Review Meeting held in the presence of Hon'ble Prime Minister. 

COST ESCALATION:  The time delay in sanction and implementation of project may result in cost escalation of about 10% every year. 

The above proposal is submitted for consideration in compliance with the resolution of Joint Review Meeting held on 03-08-2007 in the presence of Hon'ble Prime Minister.

Project - 12

RECLAMATION OF SALINE, ALKALINE AND WATERLOGGED SOILS IN KARNATAKA

The land is inelastic commodity and the only alternative left to meet ever-increasing demand of food grains for ever increasing population is to enhance the productivity of the cultivated land and also to bring potential degraded lands under plough. According to the National Commission on Agriculture, an area of 70 lakh ha in the country suffers from alkalinity and salinity to such an extent that it renders crop production either impossible or uneconomical. 

In Karnataka, 100.75 lakh hectare area is under cultivation. Out of this about 23.62 lakh hectares (23%) is under irrigation. Out of this irrigated area about 2.42 lakh hectares has been affected by salinity, alkalinity and waterlogged conditions and has rendered these lands under-productive or unproductive. In Karnataka waterlogged condition is the main problem in major command areas which inturn results in salinity, alkalinity. Depending upon the severity of these problems, the productivity in affected area is reduced by 25-75 percent. 

Sri Manmohan Singh, Hon’ble Prime Minister of India visited Karnataka on 03.08.2007 along with dignitaries from Planning Commission, Union Agriculture Minister and Union Minister for State for Planning, Secretaries from GOI and Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission. Detailed deliberations followed after presentation on agriculture situation in the State. 

Hon’ble Prime Minister appreciated the steps taken by Government of Karnataka. Keeping this background Sri Sharad Powar, Hon’ble Union Agriculture Minister has prepared Karnataka Resolution indicating 18 points for consideration. Accordingly, the project proposal for XVI Resolution i.e., Reclamation of Saline, Alkaline and Waterlogged Soils in Karnataka. The project proposal is prepared for XI Five Year Plan indicating financial requirement of Rs.300 crore (Rs.60 crore per year) for implementing the programme. 

The problematic soils are reclaimed under this programme through subsurface perforated PVC pipe drainage system at a unit cost of Rs.40000 per hectare. The scheme will be in implementation in 28 districts of the State with the aim of treating about 75000 hectares during XI Five Year Plan period. All the farmers of the affected area are covered under this programme. Funding pattern would be 90:10 between GOI and GOK. It is planned to have pre project and post project evaluation of the project to study various parameters viz. fertility status, moisture status, productivity/biomass yield, employment generation etc.

Project - 13

STRENGTHENING AND EXPANSION OF SUVARNA KRISHI HONDA

PROGRAMME IN KARNATAKA. 

          The Karnataka Government launched a prestigious programme called Suvarna Krishi Honda during 2006-07 with an outlay of Rs.50 crores for construction of 50000 Krishi Hondas.  The 40% of outlay was earmarked to benefit SC/ST farmers and 60% to SF/MF in the State who are solely dependent on Agriculture.  Each farmer was given Raita Mahiti Patra and wide publicity of the scheme was made across the State.  The programme was of great success and same was continued during the year 2007-08.  There is a great demand of farm ponds from the farmers.  The water stored in the farm pond will help to irrigate crops under critical conditions.  Due to fast depletion of ground water table the urgent need is to recharge the ground water table by way of harvesting run off water.  By collecting run off water in farm ponds in all the farmers fields will definitely improve the ground water table. 

          Sri Man Mohan Singh, Hon'ble Prime Minister of India visited Karnataka on 03-08-2007 alongwith dignitaries from Planning Commission, Union Agriculture Minister and Union Minister for State for Planning, Secretaries from Government of India and Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission. Detailed deliberations followed after the presentation.   

Hon'ble Prime Minister appreciated the steps taken by Government of Karnataka.  Keeping this background Sri Sharad Pawar Hon'ble Minister for Agriculture has prepared Karnataka Resolution indicating 18 points for consideration.  Accordingly, the project proposal for XVI Resolution i.e. strengthening and expansion of Suvrana Krishi Honda Programme in Karnataka.  The Project Proposal is prepared for XI Five Year Plan indicating financial requirement of Rs.250 crores (Rs.50 crores per year) for implementing Suvarna Krishi Honda in the State.   

All the farmers will be covered under the scheme with a special attention to SC/ST, SF/MF.  Average unit cost can be fixed around Rs.15,000/- per farm pond.  The design will be depending upon the site suitability and catchment area, a minimum of 9 meter length, 9 meter width and 3 meter depth dimension will be constructed along with inlet cum outlet and silt trap.  Funding pattern would be on a sharing ratio of 90:10 between Government of India and Government of Karnataka. 

Project - 14

FORMATION OF SELF HELP GROUPS “RAITHA SHAKTI GROUPS” (RSG)

The land area available for cultivation is limited and is under the pressure of population growth. The viability of small and marginal agricultural holdings has always been a major issue in Karnataka’s Agriculture.  Agriculture Census-2005-06 shows that there are 75.81 lakh land holdings in the State, out of which 56.69 lakh are in marginal and small category. Farm holdings in the State are increasing in number, but decreasing in size. Thus, between 1970-71 and 2005-06, the number of holdings in the state has increased from 35.51 lakhs to 75.81 lakhs, and the average farm size has come down to 1.63 ha from 3.2 ha. which is much below the economic size of 2.56 hectares for Karnataka.

The increased number of small holdings makes it necessary to focus on them as the future harbingers of change and instruments of growth. Experts in the field have time and again suggested group farming approach (cluster farming or farmers’ consortia, etc.,) to overcome the constraint of the small size of agricultural holdings.  The state must reorient its agricultural extension strategy to promote a ‘group farming approach’ at the village level to overcome this problem.  In each village groups of farmers numbering between 10‑20 willing to take-up cultivation of similar crops (or activities like poultry farming, goat rearing etc.,) should be formed and trained to act as a group in accessing credit, technology, inputs and marketing services.  Individuals in the group may adopt the group approach for one or two common crops grown by them even if each of them cultivates several crops.  Thus, there could be groundnut groups, mango groups, vegetable groups, floriculture groups; poultry farmers’ groups etc., depending upon which activities in a village can benefit the farmers most by adopting the group approach.

Each group can be attached to a credit institution like a bank branch or a cooperative society which will assess and meet the credit needs of the group depending upon the common crops or activities of the group.  The group can also access insurance services for their common crops to protect them against risks of crop failure. The group approach will enable farmers to access professional / technical services of consultants as it will be viable for them to pay for such services collectively. Extension services of the Departments of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Sericulture, etc. can be provided more easily to groups with common crops or activities instead of addressing individual farmers separately.  Also groups of farmers can purchase or hire on custom hiring basis agricultural machinery and equipment required for their common crops.   

Each farmers’ group can have a tie-up with a marketing firm through contract farming or can market their produce on their own by accessing transport, storage, and packaging services collectively. Farmers’ groups will be able to designate more literate and knowledgeable members among them to perform tasks like book keeping, and negotiation of contracts.  This will eliminate the exploitative role played by several middlemen in the supply of credit and inputs and marketing of produce. While acting in a group, farmers are better equipped to face various risks and this will greatly help in reducing distress on the part of farmers.  Groups can also mobilize individual farmers for various socially beneficial activities like shramadan, cultural programmes, village festivals etc. which would increase a sense of ‘self worth’ among members making them less prone to depressions.

Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana also endorses Special schemes for beneficiaries of land reforms under which project based assistance will be given in the stream one funds. Assistance will be available for improving the net minimum income of this category of beneficiaries. Beneficiaries of land reforms are usually small and marginal farmers. Making their agriculture viable will be possible only when capital investments on land development, irrigation, high technology infrastructure in emerging areas such as floriculture, horticulture, seed production, etc are made. Specific projects for groups of such beneficiaries can be taken up with provision for common infrastructure.  In addition, it also insists Strengthening of Market Infrastructure and marketing development where in assistance for setting up of cold storages, cold chains, godowns, formation of farmer’s SHGs, setting up collection centre etc.

The State Government has also organized over 1.20 lakh number of women’s groups successfully over the last few years.  With encouragement and support from the NABARD many financial institutions are organizing Self Help Groups of Women and BPL households to help them avail of micro finance facilities.  This has contributed greatly to the empowerment of women in the rural areas. 

The Department of Agriculture plans to adopt the policy of promoting farmers’ groups on a large scale in all the villages of Karnataka to obtain for the farmers with small holdings the benefits of medium and large scale farming.  This is likely to revolutionize agriculture in Karnataka by empowering farmers to access credit, technology and inputs on more favourable terms and to act strongly in marketing their produce for obtaining more remunerative prices.   

As a suitable incentive for the formation and the operation of farmers’ group,  each farmers’ group is proposed to be given an initial working capital / Seed Money of Rs.10,000/‑  subject to their contributing amount of Rs.10,000 towards the initial capital.  In return, the Department will start distributing all its subsidy oriented programmes through these groups.

Budget requirement

As there are 75.81 lakh farm holdings in Karnataka, out o which 56.69 lakh are small and marginal and to group them into Raitha Shakti Groups of 15-20 farmers each there would be around 2.85 lakh groups.  If, an amount of Rs.10,000 per group is provided as seed money then the budget required would be around Rs.285 Crore. To operationalize the scheme of Raitha Shakti Groups a budget of Rs.57 Crore for each year will be needed, with this all the 56.69 lakh farm holdings can be brought into Raitha Shakti Groups in next five years.

To initialize the scheme on a pilot basis in the current plan an amount of Rs.10 Crore per annum totaling to Rs.50 Crore for the five year period needs to be granted.  With this it is possible to establish around 10,000 such group every year and 345 Raitha Shakti Groups can be formed in each district. By the end of            XI plan Karnataka State would have around 50,000 Raitha Shakti Groups, which would be empowered to meet the challenges of small & marginal holdings.

Project - 15

AGRICULTURE MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM (AMIS) FOR COMPREHENSIVE AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT

In an agriculture based State like Karnataka, the information technology has progressed significantly in recent past but still it is not widely applied in the agricultural domain.  Today we require extension services unlike two decades ago; to offer high grade technologies, required high standards, dynamic approach and firm dependability.  This requires a strong supporting information system right from the grass root level up to the policy making authorities.  All the developed countries are using the information technology for the betterment of the agriculture.   

Raitha Samparka Kendras have been operating in the State for a few years now. These centres are located at the hobli level, for the farmers that provide information on farm practices and also implement the various schemes of the agriculture department. However, the operation as well as speed of Raitha Samparka Kendras needs to be improved substantially. These RSKs should support information about the inputs, package of practices, information about the markets and the probable changes in the market, as well as new technologies and also to speed up the reporting process along with maintenance/analysis of records. Therefore, these have to be properly equipped, in terms of training, manpower, infrastructure and integration of technology.  A few Committees, which studied the problems of Karnataka agriculture, have suggested that sufficient investment has to be made in this direction.  By doing so each hobli of the state will have fully equipped Raitha Samparka Kendra, in turn will have to be backed up with flow of information from GPs and village level.   

Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana also endorses on strengthening of infrastructure to promote Extension Services. This includes new initiatives for skill development and training in the farming community and to revamp the existing State agricultural extension systems. 

Under RKVY District Comprehensive Agricultural plans (CDAP) are prepared from grass root level (Grama Panchayath) by taking views of Grama Sabha, people’s representatives, local progressive farmers and NGOs. Village-wise data base has to be developed for Planning, Implementation and Monitoring the process.

With this in the background the Department of Agriculture proposes to establish an Agriculture Management Information System at the Hobli level which includes a broad based single window extension system under one roof to integrate different agriculture activities.  It needs an interconnectivity right from the grass root level to the State level with parallel connectivity to the Krishi Vignyan Kendras, University of Agriculture Sciences for the dissemination of latest technology from lab to land. The scientists working in KVKs/ Agricultural Research Stations located in the district will also be part and parcel of the System.  

The System will have data base on Agricultural and allied sectors, Seed & their availability, Weather information, Fertilizer supply, Energy support on line. In addition it will also have information on Land improvement, implementation of land reforms, land consolidation and conservation, Minor irrigation, water management and watershed development, Animal husbandry, dairying and poultry, Fisheries, Social forestry and farm forestry, Minor forest produce, Small-scale industries, including food-processing industries.

Besides taking care of the above aspects, the system will also perform---

1. Instant monitoring and timely reporting on-line.

2. Monitoring of expected yield (Description from the Farmer) and Final Yield.

3. Monitoring of channelization of information.

4. Monitoring of distribution of funds/subsidies.

5. Directives and announcements.

6. Reduction of paper work in the offices.

7. Information on pests/diseases.

8. Current Market prices & price forecasting 

The proposed system will try to bridge the information gap between the field functionaries and PRIs/Government and various stake holders o f the Agriculture Sector.  It will be the one stop information centre for both the Government and the Farming community. It will efficiently use the knowledge of information technology for the betterment of Farming community.

Target People

The client base is whole lot of people who are directly or indirectly involved with the agriculture; starting from seed to super market approach.

System

          The proposed system should have necessary and latest infrastructure equipments like computer/ simputer / mobile phone with connectivity at hobli level in the existing RSKs, Assistant Directors’ Office at taluk level, Joint Directors’ Office at district level, District Agriculture Training Centres, KVKs, UAS, Head Office and the Secretariat.  It needs a financial investment of Rs.10 Crore for a period of two years to operationalize the system.  Further annual allocation of grants for regular maintenance would be needed.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

The cost incurred in this process will not be much compared to the benefit achieved. Moreover the system will have a direct and fast communication procedure to attend the personalized problems and the farmers can have a tailor-made solution rather than the general solutions. The system will help to reduce the wastage of funds and enable extension workers to help the farmers to tackle complex situations.

Project - 16

STUDY TOURS FOR FARMERS AND EXTENSION OFFICERS

In the context of Globalization and open market it is very essential to update the knowledge the farmer and the extension workers.  It is well known fact that “seeing is believing”.  The objective of the study tours is to provide farmers/ extension workers an insight into the advances made in the different types of farming and to show them the successful projects in different parts of the World. The study tours would help to establish more exchange programmes and a network with farmers of different State/ Country/ World. Farmers and extension workers could get first-hand experience during their visit and acquaint themselves with the latest and improved farming technology. Organizing study tours to visit allied agricultural institutions, organizations and progressive farmers’ fields can cover success stories of the villages that have become self-sufficient and independent in sustainable and integrated agriculture. 

Under this scheme the farmers and extension workers will be also be taken to Agriculture Universities/ KVKs and other reputed Agricultural Institutions located in other States/ country to witness the ongoing agricultural advances.  Study tours in the past have proved to be very useful instrument for technology transfer and awareness creation. 

Study tour programme of farmers and extension workers of the state shall be taken up at regular intervals so as to observe and know the recent research findings, study of latest production technologies in the area of Agriculture and allied fields within and outside the country and practice the same in their own farms and be a model for the other farmers.

          Farmers study tours can achieve the objectives mentioned below: 

·Producer education/leadership development on issues related to international agriculture, markets, relationships, and economics.

·Market research/ issue identification to enhance products’/producers’ opportunities in foreign markets.

·Institutional relationships with those organizations and companies with complementary interests in agriculture.

·Public relations/awareness of the importance and impact of national/international markets on food and agri systems. 

The Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana also endorses and focuses on Study tours of farmers to places of interest to them, especially to research institutions etc. 

The State Agriculture Department proposes to the above programme with an outlay of Rs.1 Crore per annum for a period of five years amounting to Rs. 5 Crore for five years.