Progress in Creating Unique Digital Farmer IDs in India
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Schemes
Why in news
As of July 20, 2026, over 10.18 crore farmer IDs have been created to streamline direct benefit transfers and technical advisory. The IDs integrate schemes like PM-KISAN, PMFBY, MSP procurement, credit, input distribution, and disaster relief.
Background
The government has been working on a digital ecosystem for farmers, including a unique farmer ID linked to land records and Aadhaar, to enable targeted delivery of subsidies and services.
Key facts
Over 10.18 crore farmer IDs created by July 20, 2026.
Farmer IDs enable integration of DBT schemes like PM-KISAN, PMFBY, MSP procurement, credit, input distribution, and disaster relief.
YES-TECH uses satellite data with crop yield models for technology-based yield estimation at insurance unit level.
Smart Sampling for CCE uses satellite vegetation indices to optimize crop cutting experiment planning and eliminate manual selection bias.
Satellite imagery helps resolve area and yield disputes between state governments and insurance companies, reducing claim delays.
Multi-temporal satellite imagery enables rapid mapping of flood/drought-affected areas via automated DSS workflows.
Under SMAM, financial assistance up to 50% for drone purchase for agri-graduates and small/marginal farmers in NE states; 40% for other farmers.
Total 2,122 drones distributed/approved under SMAM.
FMTTIs at Budni (MP), Hisar (Haryana), and Biswanath Chariali (Assam) are DGCA-approved RPTOs; 155 drone pilots trained so far.
Under Namo Drone Didi scheme, 1,094 drones provided to selected SHGs; training included in supply package.
Prelims pointers
- PM-KISAN
- PMFBY
- MSP
- YES-TECH
- CCE
- SMAM
- FMTTI
- DGCA
- RPTO
- Namo Drone Didi
Mains angles
- Discuss the role of technology in transforming agricultural governance and subsidy delivery in India.
- Critically examine the impact of digital farmer IDs on the efficiency of welfare schemes and disaster management.
- Evaluate the use of drones and satellite imagery in agriculture: opportunities and challenges.