Thiruvananthapuram : Keralam is set to revise its agri policy, with emphasis on climate-resilient farming, technology adoption, market access and greater participation of women and youth, said minister for agriculture T Siddique on Friday.
The existing policy, framed in 1992 and revised in 2015, forms the basis for several farmer-welfare measures, including awards, pension, debt-relief and land-stability schemes. For 2026-27, govt has introduced, expanded programmes including ‘Krishi Sakhi’ for women farmers, technology-driven agriculture, farm tourism and ‘KATHIR’ agri clubs for school students. Govt plans to establish agri clubs in 500 schools and support agri-tech startups, food-processing units, farmer-producer organisations and rural enterprises.
Water conservation, weather-based farm planning and enhanced compensation for crop loss due to natural disasters will also receive priority.
On paddy procurement, Sidique said steps were being taken to reduce delays in registration, verification, storage, transportation and payment. Govt is considering changes to land-use rules to enable crop diversification in plantation areas and promote agri-based activities such as farm tourism. The revised policy will strengthen marketing and value-addition chains and promote the state’s agri products in national and international markets through ‘Kerala Brand’ initiative. Allocations include Rs 350L for Krishi Sakhi, Rs 150L for technology-driven agriculture and Rs 50L for farm tourism. The technology programme will promote AI, drones, IoT devices, sensors, smart irrigation and precision farming to improve productivity, reduce costs and strengthen climate resilience. Govt is examining integration of procurement registration with AIMS and KATHIR portals. The policy aims to improve farm incomes, strengthen crop insurance and disaster-relief mechanisms and make agriculture a more attractive livelihood for the younger generation.