Tech for Every Tiller: ASSOCHAM Urges Unified Agri-Tech Ecosystem to Reach 86% of India’s Farmers

Updated: November 12, 2025 03:52

Image Source: Economic Times

A new ASSOCHAM report reveals that 86% of Indian farmers remain untouched by agri-tech innovations. It calls for a unified ecosystem integrating state-level testing platforms, data frameworks, and inclusive delivery models. The goal is to transform fragmented agricultural innovation into scalable, accessible solutions for smallholders across India.

India’s Agri-Tech Future Hinges on Integration, Inclusion, and Innovation

India’s agricultural sector stands at a crossroads. Despite a surge in agri-tech startups and digital tools, a staggering 86% of farmers remain outside the reach of these innovations, according to a report released by ASSOCHAM on November 11, 2025. The report emphasizes the urgent need for a unified agri-tech ecosystem that bridges the gap between innovation and impact.

Key Highlights from the ASSOCHAM Report:

Fragmentation Hampers Reach

India’s agri-tech landscape is highly fragmented, with innovations often confined to pilot projects or isolated regions.

The report calls for systemic integration through state-level testing platforms and interoperable data frameworks.

Need for Agricultural Data Commons

A centralized Agricultural Data Commons is proposed to facilitate evidence-based decision-making, model validation, and policy alignment.

Inclusive Technology Delivery

Technologies must be customized for smallholders, with attention to local languages, cultural contexts, and digital literacy levels.

The report stresses the importance of last-mile connectivity and affordable access.

Sandbox Environments for Innovation

ASSOCHAM recommends creating sandbox environments where startups and researchers can test, refine, and scale agri-tech solutions in real-world settings.

Financing and Commercialization Gaps

Many innovations fail to reach farmers due to lack of financing, poor commercialization pathways, and limited institutional support.

The report urges public-private partnerships to address these bottlenecks.

Policy Redesign for Agri-Tech Adoption

A fundamental redesign of validation and delivery mechanisms is needed to ensure that agri-tech reaches the masses, not just the elite.

Vision for a Future-Ready Farm Economy

The report envisions an agricultural system where technology meets inclusion, data drives decisions, and innovation leads to impact.

India’s agri-tech revolution must evolve from isolated breakthroughs to a cohesive, inclusive movement that empowers every farmer—especially the smallholders who form the backbone of rural India.

Sources: Economic Times, Rediff Money

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