Databases are currently using ICT (information and communication technology) to track data and manage information flow. The use of blockchain technology to power these databases is a novel concept. They distribute privileges to all network members rather than having a single server and administrator. Multiple parties can then access and validate new database additions, increasing security and lowering the risk of corruption.

Blockchain is a technology that can bring breakthroughs in the Agri sector with its potential. By allowing information to be traced across the agricultural supply chain, blockchain agriculture enhances food safety. The ability of blockchain to store and manage data allows for traceability, which is used to aid in the development and implementation of intelligent farming and index-based crop insurance systems.

Blockchain technologies can track all types of information about plants, such as seed quality, and crop growth, and even generate a record of the journey of the plant after it leaves the farm. This data can improve supply chain transparency and eliminate concerns associated with illegal and unethical operations. When consumers have this amount of transparency, they can make informed purchasing decisions. They frequently utilize this information to reward farmers and producers that implement good farming methods.

Concerns have been raised that blockchain technology could be misapplied or misused, putting food security at risk. For example, privately held blockchains are easier to hack and less secure. Because these blockchains are based on private organisation norms, it's easy to see how the wrong people could take advantage of them. Small-scale farmers, on the other hand, who lack the necessary size, technological know-how, and scalability to take advantage of blockchain technology, may be left behind.

Many issues must be resolved before blockchain technology can be completely incorporated into agriculture. First, blockchain implementation must be decentralised to accommodate small farmers and rural dwellers. Otherwise, food security will remain a problem. Implementation must enable sustainable and equitable food systems, allowing consumers to make better decisions.

Blockchain is the only way that traceability can be brought reliably to farm produce with the distributed market architecture. IoT devices and sensors are being introduced by agritech companies, and blockchain technology can be used to consolidate data on a variety of topics, including seed quality, crop tracking, and the path of crops from the farm to the market.

Before the data can be preserved, it must first be formatted and made comprehensible. Blockchain technology makes it easier to add meta information to data and structure. It can be saved after that, making compliance enforcement easier. Data compliance ensures that the information gathered is kept secure.

Learning Objectives

What are the issues to be resolved before incorporating Blockchain technology to Agriculture?

What is Blockchain technology?

Highlight the uses of Blockchain technologies in Agriculture.

What are the barriers to using Blockchain technologies?