Khet Bachao Abhiyan: Leveraging E-Technology for Sustainable Soil Health and Natural Farming

The success of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan is particularly relevant in the context of India’s climate commitments and the push for the National Mission on Natural Farming. By utilizing e-technology, the government has bridged the information gap, allowing for a more transparent and efficient extension service. The real-time monitoring aspect ensures that the transition to sustainable practices is backed by scientific evidence, making it more acceptable to a community that has traditionally relied on conventional methods. Furthermore, the campaign aligns with the broader objectives of the PM-PRANAM scheme, which aims to reduce the subsidy burden on chemical fertilizers while restoring the organic vitality of the soil. As the Abhiyan scales up, it serves as a blueprint for how digital public infrastructure can be leveraged to achieve environmental sustainability and food security simultaneously. UPSC Relevance: This development serves as an excellent case study for questions regarding e-technology in the aid of farmers and government interventions for sustainable agriculture. It touches upon GS3 dimensions of cropping patterns, environmental degradation, and the socio-economic impact of reducing farm input costs through scientific governance.