8^th June 2023, New Delhi

Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi signed an MoU with Amazon Kisan to combine strengths and create synergy between the two organizations for guiding the farmers on scientific cultivation of different crops for optimum yield and income.  ICAR will provide technological backstopping to the farmers through Amazon’s network. It will improve farmers’ livelihood and boost crop yield. This MoU in farmers’ partnership will help ensure access to high-quality fresh produce for consumers across India, including through Amazon Fresh.

Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary (DARE) & Director General (ICAR), highlighted the present scenario of Indian agriculture and emphasized secondary agriculture for better remuneration for the farmers.  He further emphasised the importance and role of critical inputs in agriculture and season-based crop plans. He said ICAR will collaborate with Amazon for technologies, capacity building, and transfer of new knowledge. He expressed his hope for success of this Public-Private-Peasants-Partnership (PPPP).

Shri Chetan Krishna Swami, Vice President (Public Policy) Amazon India emphasized the company's commitment for supporting Indian farmers, and said, “Technology holds immense potential to revolutionize the agricultural sector and uplift the lives of Indian farmers. This partnership will enable an ecosystem for the farming community, strengthening the 'farm to fork' supply chain."

Dr. US Gautam, Deputy Director General (Agricultural Extension), ICAR and Shri. Sidhrtha Tata, Senior Product Leader from Amazon Fresh Supply Chain & Kisan signed the MoU on behalf of the respective organization.

ICAR and Amazon will collaborate to extend the latest and most precise agriculture practices that have been developed by ICAR’s extensive research to bridge the technical knowledge gaps in integrated cultivation by leveraging ICAR's Krishi Vigyan Kendra Knowledge (KVK) network. KVKs strengthen a wider group of farmers by leveraging a technological base through transfer of technology and capacity-building programmes. Additionally, ICAR and Amazon will work together on farmer engagement programs at Krishi Vigyan Kendras, conducting demonstrations, trials, and capacity-building initiatives to enhance farming practices and farm profitability. Furthermore, Amazon will provide training support and assist farmers in marketing their products through its online platform, facilitating direct connections with consumers.

The outcomes from a pilot project at Pune between ICAR-KVK and Amazon have motivated to further expand the partnership.

(Source: Agricultural Extension Division, ICAR)