BAIF is proud to lead the implementation of the RuTAGe Smart Village Centre (RSVC) at Prakasha in Shahada Block, Nandurbar—an important initiative to bring science, technology and innovation closer to farming communities.
Launched on 4 September 2026, the RSVC will serve a cluster of 10 villages, creating a local hub for farmers to access relevant technologies, practical knowledge, training, digital services and sustainable farming solutions.
Implemented by BAIF with the support of NABARD, under the RuTAGe initiative of the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, the Centre reflects BAIF’s commitment to ensuring that innovation reaches the grassroots in a form that is accessible, affordable, locally relevant and easy to adopt.
The Centre was virtually inaugurated by Dr. Ajay K. Sood, Deputy Managing Director, NABARD, in the presence of Dr. Sapna Poti, Director, Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India.
The occasion was further strengthened by the presence and commitment of key stakeholders, including Shri A.V. Bhavani Shankar, CGM, NABARD Maharashtra; Dr. B. R. Premi, Chief General Manager, NABARD, Head Office; Dr. Bharat Kakade, President and Managing Trustee, BAIF; and Dr. Rajashree Joshi and Dr. Raviraj Jadhav, Vice Presidents, BAIF, along with senior officials from NABARD and BAIF.
The RSVC will demonstrate and facilitate access to practical solutions ranging from AI-based crop advisory, agri-drones and precision agriculture to solar-powered solutions, post-harvest technologies, sustainable agricultural inputs and digital services—helping farmers reduce costs, improve productivity, manage climate risks and strengthen livelihoods.
For BAIF, the RSVC is more than a technology centre. It is an opportunity to build a vibrant rural innovation ecosystem, connecting farmers with local institutions, KVKs, FPOs, technology providers and other stakeholders.
BAIF looks forward to making RSVC Prakasha a model for technology-enabled, climate-resilient and inclusive rural development.
