Ashraya Centres for Enhanced Digital Farmer Services
In a significant step towards empowering the farming community, the Agriculture Department has announced the launch of ‘Ashraya’ farmer service centres. These centres aim to streamline the delivery of digital services to farmers across the State, marking another milestone in the digitization of agricultural services.
Building on the ‘Kathir’ App
The initiative is an extension of the recently launched ‘Kathir’ app (Kerala Agriculture Technology Hub and Information Repository), a comprehensive digital platform designed to centralize farm-related services. Through this app, farmers have been able to access essential agricultural resources and information seamlessly. The ‘Ashraya’ centres will take this effort further by offering farmers in-person access to these services.
Key Services Offered at ‘Ashraya’ Centres
The centres are set to offer an array of crucial services to farmers, including:
- AIMS Portal Registration: Facilitating enrollment in the Agriculture Information Management System for streamlined management of agricultural data.
- Crop Procurement Registration: Assisting farmers with the registration process for paddy, coconut, and copra procurement.
- Mechanization Support: Providing access to services under the Sub Mission on Agricultural Mechanisation (SMAM), enabling farmers to adopt advanced farming techniques and equipment.
These centres will ensure quick and hassle-free delivery of services, allowing farmers to focus on their agricultural activities without administrative delays.
Affordable Service Charges
The service charges levied at these centres will be on par with the charges at Akshaya centres, making the services both accessible and affordable for farmers, as stated in the government’s November 25 order.
Expansion Plans
The long-term vision of the department is to establish one ‘Ashraya’ centre in every Krishi Bhavan limit, ensuring no farmer is left behind in accessing these services. The pilot project for the first centre will be rolled out this year in a region with a significant agricultural footprint and a large population of small and marginal farmers.
Supportive Ecosystem
The initial phase of the initiative will be led by entities like:
- Krishikootam Collectives
- KrishiShree Units
- Agro Services Centres
- Karshika Karma Senas
These organizations will play a pivotal role in setting up and managing the centres, ensuring their effectiveness and success.
Future Outlook
The department has emphasized that the expansion of ‘Ashraya’ centres will depend on the success of the pilot project. However, the ultimate goal is to make these centres a cornerstone of agricultural support by having one in every Krishi Bhavan limit.
Significance for Farmers
This initiative underscores the Agriculture Department’s commitment to improving the lives of farmers through digital innovation. By providing accessible, efficient, and affordable services, the ‘Ashraya’ centres are set to become a game-changer in how farmers access agricultural resources and assistance.
This bold step forward is expected to bridge the gap between technology and grassroots agricultural practices, ensuring that every farmer benefits from the State’s digital revolution.
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A dedicated agronomist with a passion for sustainable farming, our author blends traditional wisdom with modern techniques to empower farmers. Through Krushimantri, we share practical insights, innovative ideas, and inspiration for a thriving agricultural future.
