A one-day Zonal Workshop on Kisan Sarathi 2.0 for Krishi Vigyan Kendras of Bihar and Jharkhand was organised by ICAR–Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Patna, at KVK, Gaya-I. The workshop aimed at sensitisation and capacity building of KVK Nodal Officers and other stakeholders to enhance the delivery of digitally enabled, scientifically validated advisories to farmers, ensure prompt expert responses to farmers’ queries, and promote effective utilisation of the Kisan Sarathi platform for sustainable agricultural development.
Dr. Anjani Kumar, Director, ICAR–ATARI, Patna, emphasised that Kisan Sarathi 2.0 serves as a technology-driven bridge between scientists and farmers, facilitating informed decision-making and improved agricultural productivity. He urged KVKs to expedite technology dissemination to farmers and highlighted the pivotal role of the platform in delivering validated advisories within the shortest possible time. Appreciating the contribution of KVKs to national agricultural development, he also encouraged Nodal Officers to ensure the inclusion of all farmers within their respective districts through active collaboration with District Agriculture Officers (DAOs). He set a target of expanding the farmer base on the platform from 52 lakh to 1 crore by March 2026.
The Principal Scientist and Chief Coordinator of Kisan Sarathi 2.0 delivered the welcome address and outlined the objectives of the workshop. He informed that the platform is currently available in 13 regional languages, enhancing accessibility and farmer-friendliness across diverse regions. He underscored that easy access to the application would enable timely advisories and significantly strengthen agricultural extension and farmer outreach.
Another Principal Scientist from ICAR–IASRI and Co-Principal Investigator of the project briefed participants on the progress made by KVKs in onboarding farmers onto the Kisan Sarathi 2.0 portal. He stressed that clear, precise, and need-based communication, supported by the joint efforts of ICAR and the Department of Agriculture, would enhance the platform’s nationwide effectiveness. He also urged district authorities to provide databases of farmers engaged in fisheries, animal husbandry, and farm mechanisation to ensure comprehensive coverage. Additionally, he informed that adequate budgetary provisions have been allocated by the Government of India under the Bharat Vistaar initiative for the AI-based Kosh, including Kisan Sarathi.
The District Agriculture Officer assured full cooperation in facilitating the inclusion of remaining farmers from the district into the Kisan Sarathi 2.0 platform using the existing agricultural database.
During the technical session, experts highlighted key features of the Kisan Sarathi 2.0 Kosh, including content standards, approval mechanisms involving expert consultation, video conferencing, and real-time query management. A live demonstration of content creation was conducted, followed by discussions on zonal progress and implementation strategies. Hands-on training was provided on developing location- and crop-specific advisories, particularly for litchi and makhana. An interactive feedback session and action planning exercise were also conducted to ensure effective rollout.
Nodal Officers from all 66 KVKs of Bihar and Jharkhand participated in the workshop. Additionally, 25 innovative and young farmers attended the programme and shared their experiences on utilising advisory services to enhance their farming practices.
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