Leveraging Technology for Farmers' Welfare: An Impact Assessment of the Krushi Samiksha Kendra (KSK) in Odisha

The Krushi Samiksha Kendra (KSK) is a data-driven monitoring system implemented by Odisha's Department of Agriculture to address challenges in overseeing agricultural schemes and services. Odisha's agricultural sector, crucial for the state's economy and employing over 45% of its workforce, faces low productivity and resource-intensive practices. The KSK utilizes analytics, live surveys, and a dedicated team to monitor program implementation, plant protection, and policy reforms. Real-time data access empowers officials, while nudges and escalations based on performance indicators ensure timely action. Stakeholder surveys and feedback analysis are conducted for continuous improvement. This research employs a mixed-methods approach to assess the KSK's impact on monitoring, feedback mechanisms, and policy agility in Odisha, considering its influence on various stakeholders and the broader agricultural landscape. Since its inception, the Krushi Samiksha Kendra has conducted over 500 surveys targeting various groups, contributing to the improvement of numerous policies and initiatives. It has identified and addressed over 2700 instances of pest incidence before they escalated to critical levels. Additionally, it has enhanced recorded scheme achievement by approximately 40% and officials' attendance in department forums by about 30%. Moreover, it has implemented real-time crop advisories during pest and weather emergencies, ensuring timely support to farmers.