e-Technology in agriculture refers to the use of digital tools, ICT platforms, mobile apps, and online services to bridge the information gap and connect farmers to modern markets.
Role of e-Technology in Agricultural Production
Access to real-time information – Provides timely weather forecasts, pest alerts, and irrigation advisories. Eg- Kisan Suvidha app.
Digital nutrient management – Soil Health Card and digital soil maps guide fertilizer application – reduce input costs and improve productivity.
Precision farming – Drones, IoT sensors, and mobile-linked devices help farmers optimise water, fertilizers, and pesticides
Information on scientific practices like seed treatment methods, crop-specific guidance etc. Eg- Farming Leader channel on Youtube
ICT tools, KVK portals, and helplines provide remote crop advisory, enabling timely decisions. Eg- m-Kisan app
Facilitates crop monitoring through remote sensing technologies, drones etc. Eg- Drone Didi initiative
Financial inclusion under JAM and DBT under PM KISAN increases capital investment and promotes diversification to high value crops
Role of e-Technology in Agricultural Marketing
Access to transparent price information – e-NAM, Agmarknet display mandi prices – help farmers avoid distress sales.
Direct linkages with buyers through online bidding reduces dependence on middlemen.
Wider market reach – Eg- e-NAM integrates 1,500+ mandis – allows inter-state trade and better price realization.
Digital payments – UPI-linked systems ensure quick, direct payments.
Improved post-harvest logistics – Apps provide information on transport availability, storage, cold-chain, and warehouse booking. Eg- e-NWR
Branding – Social media and e-commerce platforms help farmers directly sell processed or organic produce to consumers. Eg- BigBasket
When science meets scale, when innovation becomes inclusive, when technology drives transformation, the foundation for great achievements is laid – PM Modi