Start-ups can help modernizing the Indian agricultural sector by addressing the systemic bottlenecks present in it. Critically analyze (200 Words )
Refer - Business Line
Enrich the answer from other sources, if the question demands.
IAS Parliament 5 years
KEY POINTS
Systemic bottlenecks
· Supply chains for perishable commodities such as fruits and vegetables and non-perishables such as wheat and rice remain largely fragmented in India, with smallholder farmers earning low margins.
· Unpredictable demand, price volatility and post-harvest losses compound the risks.
· Most small farmers lack access to production support, including high-quality inputs (such as seeds, fertilizers, and chemicals), advisory services, equipment rentals, crop health and yield data, and weather forecasts.
· Most small farmers lack access to collateral-free financing and crop insurance.
· Most small farmers cannot afford to buy farm equipment.
Startups transforming the agricultural sector
· Startups help to distribute fresh produce to sellers ranging from small shops to large retail outlets, reduces waste and inefficiency by using analytics, process management software and connected devices.
· Startups uses technology and data science to build more efficient supply chains that connect retail grocery stores with food processors and farmer producer organizations.
· Ergos, a rural warehousing company in Bihar, operates a chain of efficient and hygienic rural warehousing facilities that are located within easy access of small farms.
· AgroStar uses data, analytics, and artificial intelligence to power a standalone mobile app, a web service, and a customer call center where farmers can obtain high-quality products for all of their farming needs.
· Startups, a virtual marketplace for tractors and farm implements, connects farmers who need equipment with farmers who own equipment; startups can generate valuable data in the form of heat maps that depict crop yields, pest infestations and areas experiencing water stress.
· Using reliable crop analytics, satellite imagery and machine learning, start-ups like Satsure, Amnex and CropIn are offering services that facilitate crop insurance for smallholder farmers that come with reduced premiums and more timely and accurate payouts.
Challenges for start-ups in India
· Most of the small farmers lack digital literacy to operate smartphones and mobile applications.
· Internet connectivity is lacking in hinterland areas.
· Electricity connections are not well established in rural areas as compared to urban areas.
· Small farmers continue to use traditional methods of farming and often neglecting modern technology.
Effective implementation of Mera gaon mera gaurav, reducing the digital divide is the need of the hour for agricultural modernization.
Tapasvi 5 years
Kindly review
IAS Parliament 5 years
Elaborate a bit more on drawback of startups. Good Answer. Keep Writing
Davi 5 years
Dear Sir/Ma'am,
Kindly review.
IAS Parliament 5 years
Discuss about drawbacks in startups. Keep Writing.
