TNI Bureau: The Centre will launch Bharat-VISTAAR (Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources), an AI-powered multilingual digital tool, tomorrow in Jaipur to provide farmers with important agricultural information in their own language through mobile phones or simple phone calls.

According to sources, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan and Bhajan Lal Sharma will launch Bharat-VISTAAR. The platform will function as a 24-hour “digital agriculture expert,” enabling farmers to access information anytime. Farmers can connect with the AI assistant, named “Bharati,” by dialling 155261.

The tool will provide guidance on crop planning, packages of practices, pest management, weather forecasts, market information, government schemes, eligibility criteria, application processes, and grievance redressal. It will also offer alerts on weather conditions and pest risks to help farmers make informed decisions.

Bharat-VISTAAR will initially provide information on 10 major Central schemes, including PM-KISAN, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, Soil Health Card, Modified Interest Subvention Scheme, Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanisation, Per Drop More Crop, PM Krishi Sinchayee Yojana, PM Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan, Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, and Kisan Credit Card.

The initiative was announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the Union Budget 2026-27, where ₹150 crore was allocated for the project in the upcoming financial year. She stated that the platform will integrate AgriStack portals and agricultural practices with AI systems to improve farm productivity, support better decision-making, and reduce risks through customised advisory services.

The first version of Bharat-VISTAAR will be available in Hindi and English and will gradually expand to include regional languages. The platform will also serve as a national digital backbone connecting Central and State agricultural systems while preserving state autonomy.

Officials said the platform will evolve through collaboration with AI startups, technology firms, non-profit organisations, and AI Centres of Excellence. It will leverage India’s AI ecosystem, including the India AI Mission and BHASHINI, and allow farmer feedback to support evidence-based policymaking and agricultural research.