Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) Scheme

The Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) Scheme, formally known as the “Support to State Extension Programmes for Extension Reforms,” is a centrally sponsored scheme in India launched in 2005. It aims to decentralize and revamp the agricultural extension system by making it more farmer-driven and accountable.

Activities of ATMA Scheme

Formation and activation of Farmer Interest Groups (FIGs): These groups of 11-25 farmers act as platforms for knowledge sharing, peer learning, and collective action.
Organizing training programs and demonstrations: ATMA conducts trainings on various aspects of agriculture, including crop production, livestock management, pest control, and financial management. It also organizes demonstrations showcasing successful farming practices.
Facilitating exposure visits and knowledge exchange: ATMA helps farmers visit successful farms and agricultural institutions to learn from others’ experiences.
Organizing Kisan Melas and other agricultural events: Kisan Melas provide a platform for farmers to interact with experts, access inputs and technologies, and market their produce.
Preparing and implementing district-level agricultural plans: ATMA works with stakeholders to develop strategic plans for agricultural development in the district.
Monitoring and evaluating extension activities: ATMA regularly monitors and evaluates the effectiveness of its activities to ensure they are meeting farmers’ needs and achieving desired outcomes.

Objectives of ATMA

Establishing new, structured and centralised institutions at the state, district and village level.
Strengthening the already existing extension system with innovative and effective operational procedures.
Simplifying and de-centralising the decision-making to the district and block levels.
Accelerating towards the viability of the extension services.
Encouraging the farmers to take part in the programme planning, coordination and resource sharing and grow their responsibility.
Strengthening the linkages between the key line Government departments, research organisations and the stakeholders.
Offering a structural mechanism for the coordination and supervision of upgradation activities of several institutions involved in technology modification and distribution at the district and village levels.
Enhancing the quality and sort of technology that is distributed.
Building partnership with the third party institutions such as NGOs, Panchayat Raj Institutions etc.
Implementing the farming system innovations and farmer organisation to overcome the technological differences and improper management of natural resources.
Tackling the issue of gender concerns by collecting and clustering women farmers into groups and offer them with the advanced training.
The availability of technical advice to farmers on new practices and technologies under ATMA has led to higher/rational use of new practices and technologies.
ATMA provides an institutional mechanism for coordination and management of Agricultural Extension System in the district.

Benefits of the ATMA scheme

Individual Farmer Benefits:

Enhanced knowledge and skills: ATMA provides numerous training programs, demonstrations, and field visits that equip farmers with the latest information and techniques on crop production, livestock management, pest control, and other crucial aspects of agriculture. This empowers them to make better decisions, adopt improved practices, and ultimately increase their productivity and profitability.
Better access to technologies and resources: ATMA acts as a bridge between research institutions and farmers, facilitating the adoption of innovative technologies and improved seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs. This allows farmers to benefit from advancements in the field and address specific challenges facing their crops and soil conditions.
Improved market access and information: ATMA helps farmers connect with markets and understand market trends through initiatives like Kisan Melas and other agricultural events. This provides them with better opportunities to sell their produce at fair prices and gain valuable insights into consumer demands.
Higher income and livelihood security: The combination of increased knowledge, access to resources, and improved market access often leads to higher yields, better quality produce, and ultimately, increased income for farmers. This translates to improved livelihoods and enhanced food security for their families and communities.
Empowerment and participation: ATMA actively encourages farmer participation in planning and decision-making processes through Farmer Interest Groups (FIGs). This gives farmers a voice in shaping agricultural policies and programs that directly impact their lives and livelihoods, fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment. Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) Scheme is very helpful for people!

Sector-Wide Benefits:

Increased agricultural productivity and production: With farmers adopting improved practices and technologies, the overall agricultural productivity of the country increases. This contributes to higher food production, which is crucial for ensuring food security for the nation’s growing population.
Sustainable agricultural practices: ATMA emphasizes resource conservation, soil health, and climate-resilient practices. This promotes sustainable agriculture, which is essential for long-term productivity and environmental protection.
Stronger agricultural system: ATMA enhances coordination and collaboration between various stakeholders in the agricultural sector, including government agencies, research institutions, NGOs, and private players. This creates a more robust and efficient system that can effectively address the challenges facing Indian agriculture.
Improved rural development: The success of ATMA in empowering farmers and increasing agricultural income contributes to overall rural development. This leads to improved standards of living, better infrastructure, and increased economic activity in rural areas.

Implementation Guidelines Under ATMA

State Level

State Nodal Agency (SNA): Headed by the Commissioner/Director of Agriculture, the SNA is responsible for overall coordination, policy guidance, and monitoring of ATMA.
State Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (SAMETI): Provides training and capacity building to ATMA functionaries.
State Level Sanctioning Committee (SLSC): Approves State Extension Work Plans (SEWPs), which guide ATMA activities in alignment with state agricultural priorities.

District Level

District Agricultural Technology Management Agency (DATMA):
- Led by a District Project Director (DPD), who oversees the implementation of ATMA in the district.
- Develops District Agricultural Action Plans (DAAPs) based on local needs and priorities.
- Coordinates with line departments, research institutions, and other stakeholders.

Block Level

Block Technology Team (BTT):
- Core unit of ATMA, comprising a Block Technology Manager (BTM), Subject Matter Specialists (SMSs), and Farmer Friends (FFs).
- Interacts directly with farmers, providing technical advice, conducting training, and organizing demonstrations.
- Prepares Block Action Plans (BAPs) based on farmers’ needs.

Village Level

Farmer Interest Groups (FIGs):
- Groups of 11-25 farmers who meet regularly to discuss agricultural issues, share knowledge, and plan collective activities.
- Serve as the primary platform for knowledge dissemination and adoption of technologies at the grassroots level.

Allocation of Funds Under ATMA

Central Share: 90% of the total project cost (initially, now varies based on state and category).
State Share: 10% of the total project cost.
Fund Flow: Funds are released from the central government to the State Nodal Agency, which then allocates funds to districts and blocks based on their approved plans.

FAQs

How does the ATMA Scheme contribute to the overall development of agriculture?

The ATMA Scheme contributes to agricultural development in several ways: Empowering farmers: It equips farmers with knowledge, skills, and access to resources, leading to increased productivity and income. Promoting sustainable practices: It emphasizes resource conservation and climate-resilient methods, ensuring long-term sustainability. Strengthening the agricultural system: It fosters collaboration between stakeholders, leading to a more efficient and responsive system. Improving rural development: Increased agricultura

How is the ATMA Scheme implemented at the state or district level?

The scheme operates through a multi-tiered structure: State Level: State Nodal Agency oversees implementation, coordinates with stakeholders, and approves state-level plans. District Level: District Agricultural Technology Management Agency (DATMA) implements the scheme, develops district-level plans, and coordinates with block and village levels. Block Level: Block Technology Team (BTT) interacts directly with farmers, conducts training, and prepares block-level plans. Village Level: Farmer Interest Groups (FIGs) serve as the primary platform for farmer participation and knowledge dissemination.