THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The World Bank has approved the ₹2,390.86 crore Kerala Climate Resilient Agri-Value Chain Modernization Project (KERA) aimed at modernizing agriculture in the state through smart farming methods. This initiative is expected to benefit five lakh farmers across Kerala.
Out of the total project cost, ₹1,677.85 crore will be provided as a loan by the World Bank, while ₹713.06 crore will be the state's contribution. The project is set to run for five years, with funds being disbursed by the World Bank once the agreement is signed, expected within a month.
The KERA project will bring significant benefits to the agricultural sector in Kerala. Four lakh farmers will be equipped with climate-resilient farming methods and modern agricultural techniques. Additionally, 100,000 farmers will receive climate-based scientific farming instructions.
The revised plan was approved following directives from the central government, and the project will focus on creating value-added products, expanding market access, and connecting farmers to these markets, making agriculture more profitable. The agricultural supply chain will be strengthened and infrastructure for agricultural markets will be enhanced, paving the way for increased investment in agriculture and related sectors. There are also plans to revive plantation crops, including rubber, cardamom and coffee.
Key features
1. Focus on farming methods that can withstand climate change, benefiting rice farmers with improved irrigation and fertilization techniques.
2. Investment in creating value-added agricultural products, with market intervention through 150 farmer producer organizations.
3. Financial and technical assistance will be provided to 250 small and medium agri-businesses, with credit support to help find better export markets.
4. Ensuring efficient management of the project to meet its goals.
Priority will be given to women farmers, women-led enterprises and start-ups, with 150 agri-startups focused on solving farmers' problems. The project allocates ₹906 crore specifically for value-added agriculture.
Dr. B Ashok, Principal Secretary of Agriculture, emphasized that the project will increase investment in the agricultural sector, streamline supply chains, and create sustainable market interactions, ultimately fostering the growth of small and medium enterprises in the sector.