Farmers’ Training on “Empowering Farmers through Digital Agriculture” Concluded at ICAR–RCER, Patna

The 5-days training programme on “Empowering Farmers Through Digital Agriculture” organized during 1-5 December, 2025 concluded today at ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region Patna. The program aimed at strengthening farmers’ capacity to use digital tools like mobiles, computer, internet, agricultural apps etc for better decision-making in crop management, resource use, and marketing of produce. A total of 14 Scheduled Caste farmers from Nawada, Buxar and Patna districts of Bihar participated in the training. As part of the programme, a pre- and post-training knowledge assessment was also conducted. The evaluation revealed significant learning gains as almost half of the participating farmers scored above 80% in the final knowledge test, indicating strong knowledge gain and understanding of the training modules.

Delivering the valedictory address, Dr. Anup Das, Director, ICAR–RCER, said that this type of training on using digital tools and techniques is need of the hour. He highlighted that “timely access to weather information, scientific crop management advisories, and real-time market intelligence has become essential for farmers to make informed and profitable decisions.” He emphasized that digital platforms can significantly reduce climate-related risks, optimize input use, and enhance both crop yield and farmers’ income. Dr. Das urged participants to act as digital ambassadors and ensure that these technologies reach farmers at the grassroots.

The training covered key modules such as using MS word, MS excel and Power Point, mobile-based agro-advisory services, online access to agricultural schemes of Government, use of internet for searching authentic information, banking and crop insurance sector, mobile apps and use of e-marketing platforms. Resource persons from state government and banking sector also delivered lectur during the training. Hands-on demonstrations and interactive sessions enabled participants to experience practical applications of digital agriculture tools that are increasingly shaping India’s agricultural landscape.Earlier, the valedictory session started with welcome address by Dr Biswajit Debnath, Sr. Scientist followed by training report presentation by Course Director Dr Rohan Kumar Raman, Sr Scientist. 

Participants expressed that the training greatly improved their understanding of digital tools and their potential to strengthen farm planning, resource optimization, and market linkages. Certificates were distributed during the concluding session. The program ended with a vote of thanks by Dr PC Chandran, Nodal officer (HRD).