Maharashtra’s First Smart Village Centre in Dhamari Wins Praise from Farmers in Pune
Maharashtra’s First Smart Village Centre in Dhamari Wins Praise from Farmers in Pune
Farmers from Dhamari village in Pune have welcomed Maharashtra’s first Rural Technology Action Group (RuTAGe) Smart Village Centre (RSVC). Many believe it will create a new generation of agripreneurs in the region.
The RSVC was launched on March 5 by Prof Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India. The centre offers several technologies aimed at helping over 5,000 farmers from Dhamari and nearby villages.
Farmers are optimistic about the benefits. A young farmer from Dhamari, said, “RSVC will create market linkages through e-commerce platforms. This will give us access to larger markets and better prices. Also, expert training at RSVC will help us learn new technologies.”
The RuTAGe programme, conceptualized in 2003-04 by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser, focuses on agricultural innovation, entrepreneurship, farmer education, financial inclusion, water management, and bridging the digital divide.
An official from the RSVC centre said they offer five of the twelve technological tracks under the programme. These include satellite-based soil nutrient monitoring, a plant nursery with high-quality saplings, solar dryers for post-harvest processing, agri-advisory services with digital soil testing, a fertiliser unit for sustainable inputs, and an integrated processing machine with a grain cleaning plant.
Farmers are already seeing the benefits. For example, a mango sapling that costs Rs 120 in the market is available for Rs 25 at RSVC. Farmers also receive up to 90% subsidy on saplings. Solar dryers are helping them save time and effort.
“The RSVC is helping farmers increase productivity and market their produce profitably. It can double farmers’ income and reduce farmer suicides,” said an official.
The RSVC aims to support rural entrepreneurs, create jobs, and improve the quality of life in villages. Farmers believe such centres can bring technology-driven empowerment to rural areas, ensuring they don’t get left behind in the digital age.
