UNDP India Joins Hands With NABARD To Lift Agricultural Data-Driven Innovations

The UNDP and NABARD have joined forces through an MoU to create data-driven innovations in agriculture and food systems for the benefit of smallholder farmers. The UNDC's full form is the United Nations Development Programme. However, they will collaborate by sharing open-source data to develop new products, transfer technology, and influence agricultural policies. UNDP will contribute its expertise in open innovations and data science to help NABARD incorporate data-driven decision-making into agricultural investments.

As per the UNDC report, The partnership involves improving and sharing collaborative digital resources like DiCRA, which provides open access to geospatial data for climate-resilient agriculture. With UNDP's support, NABARD will host and maintain DiCRA, using its datasets for policy and research. This five-year collaboration aims to promote climate action and economic empowerment in rural India. NABARD's Chairman, Shaji KV, is excited about the collaboration and envisions further cooperation with UNDP.

Reiterating UNDP's dedication, Isabelle Tschan, Deputy Resident Representative, stated, "UNDP is firmly committed to this cause. Agriculture, which employs 80% of rural women in India, represents the primary source of livelihoods and is particularly susceptible to the effects of climate change. DiCRA employs advanced data science and machine learning techniques to distinguish farms that are resilient to climate change from those that are highly vulnerable.

These innovative uses of open data can highlight best practices, optimize agricultural investments, and protect communities against risks. Partnering with NABARD will enhance our efforts to promote sustainable agricultural practices and secure the livelihoods of small-scale farmers, especially women while reducing their vulnerability.

This partnership will facilitate the analysis of agricultural trends over time, offering insights to guide investment decisions in areas like watershed management, micro-irrigation, warehouse optimization, and climate-related initiatives. This collaboration will bolster the data resources of both UNDP and NABARD.