Thu May 22 04:29:39 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article based on that summary:

**Summary:**

Ahead of the Kharif season, the Maharashtra government, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, is planning to utilize technology to help farmers. The plan includes digitizing agricultural information and integrating AI into platforms like the ‘Mahavistar App’ and ‘Digital Sheti Shala’. These platforms will provide farmers with information on farming techniques, commodity prices, and act as a “digital friend” via an AI chatbot (eventually on WhatsApp). The government is also addressing issues like the sale of bogus seeds by using the SATHI portal to trace seed origins and address complaints about coercive “linking” practices where farmers are forced to buy additional products with fertilizers. The government also emphasized the importance of timely distribution of seeds and fertilizers given the IMD’s forecast of heavy rainfall.

**News Article:**

**Maharashtra to Arm Farmers with AI Ahead of Kharif Season**

**Mumbai, May 22, 2025** – The Maharashtra government is set to launch a technology-driven initiative aimed at bolstering the upcoming Kharif season for farmers across the state. Spearheaded by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the plan focuses on digitizing agricultural information and integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into farming practices.

At a State-level Kharif season review meeting, Fadnavis outlined the government’s strategy to equip farmers with the tools they need to maximize their yields. Key to this plan is the development of the ‘Mahavistar App’ and ‘Digital Sheti Shala’ platforms, which will offer comprehensive information on farming techniques, crop-specific advice, and real-time commodity pricing.

“The App will have AI integration and a chatbot that will play the role of a digital friend,” stated Fadnavis. “We will soon bring that chatbot to WhatsApp as well.”

The government aims to address farmer concerns about spurious seeds through the SATHI portal which will allow the tracing of seeds to their source. They are also set to tackle the issue of coercive “linking” by fertilizer companies, where farmers are forced to buy unwanted products alongside essential fertilizers. Agriculture centers throughout the state will display complaint numbers, and companies found guilty of such practices will face charges under the Essential Commodities Act.

With the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting heavy rainfall across Maharashtra, the government has instructed officials to ensure the prompt distribution of seeds and fertilizers to farmers, along with the active implementation of all relevant farming schemes.

The move marks a significant step toward modernizing agriculture in Maharashtra and empowering farmers with the knowledge and resources to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.

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