Why in News?
The Biotech-KISAN (Krishi Innovation Science Application Network) Scheme on April 2, 2026, following a detailed progress report submitted by the Union Minister of State for Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, in the Rajya Sabha.
Key Objectives
- The Biotech-KISAN (Biotech-Krishi Innovation Science Application Network) Scheme, launched in 2017 by India's Department of Biotechnology under the Ministry of Science and Technology, connects scientists directly with farmers to address local agricultural challenges using biotech solutions.
- It operates on a hub-and-spoke model across 15 agro-climatic zones and 110+ Aspirational Districts, promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and women-led leadership among small and marginal farmers.
- Link science labs to farms by identifying farmer-specific issues (Ater scarcity, poor soil) and providing tailored biotech solutions.
- Enhance productivity via demonstrations of improved seeds, bio-fertilizers (PGPR), protected cultivation, and livestock/poultry health management.
- Foster Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and rural entrepreneurship for better market access.
Features and Structure
- Hubs: 52+ established with ICAR collaboration; each includes tinkering labs for R&D and training; initial funding Rs. 60 lakhs/year for 2 years, extendable to 5.
- Women Focus: Mahila Kisan Biotech Fellowship empowers female farmers as local leaders.
- Coverage: Pan-India, prioritizing marginal farmers; interventions include goat/pig/poultry/fishery improvements.
- Training: Hands-on exposure to scientific practices like bio-inputs and irrigation tech.
Achievements
- Over 200 rural entrepreneurs created; 3+ lakh farmers impacted with innovations like bio-fertilizers and better seeds.
- Hubs act as incubators, generating bio-resource jobs and scaling solutions nationwide.
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