What is Blockchain?

Blockchain is a specific type of database. The way it stores information is different from a normal database; Blockchains store data in blocks that are later linked together. As new information arrives, it is inserted into a new block. Therefore, blockchain is called a digital system of data recording.

How does Blockchain work?

In details, data and information of all the transactions stored in the blockchain’s digital recording system are called blocks. These blocks are unchangeable, cannot be changed or hacked. Originally such services were specially designed for farmers, consumers, retailers. Through which they can register, collect accurate information and send information. In blockchain, farmers have the freedom to input data and to approve or reject any information. Only validated data is recorded in blocks. The later validated data is sorted into a chronological chain system and which cannot be changed by anyone. Through blockchain technology, anyone can collect transparent and reliable crop production information for farmers. Through which the farmer can collect instant information about production. (Such as seed quality, soil moisture, weather and climate data, payment, demand and selling prices, etc.) Everything is on blockchain platforms.

Areas of potential use of blockchain technology in agriculture–

• Grain and food production: The most common problem facing farmers worldwide is crop failure. It is usually caused by adverse climates and insect fungi. Blockchain technology helps farmers to observe factors such as soil conditions, pest conditions, weather, etc. so farmers can get a clear picture of these factors and take necessary steps to protect crops and increase productivity.

• Agriculturally supply chain: Blockchain technology increases farmers’ food production targets mainly due to the right response from customers.Nowadays consumers are more aware of the quality of food and they want to know where their food comes from. Using blockchain technology, customers can easily find out where their food source comes from, who produces it and how fresh the food is. Drink to make sure. In addition, consumers can find out exactly what they are paying for. Blockchain technology will help farmers record and update current crop information and track them through the process of planting, harvesting, storing and distributing seeds using an app on their smartphones. So they can see the exact condition of their product and make any adjustment if necessary.

• Climate crisis control: One of the major disadvantages of farmers during crop production is the weather conditions. Therefore, predicting and observing weather conditions is the main goal of crop survival and production. Agriculture meteorological stations generate and send necessary information such as soil temperature, air temperature, rainfall, wind speed, relative humidity, atmospheric pressure, etc. All these records, analyzes are stored in the blockchain. Farmers can easily get these data from the blockchain and take the necessary steps in advance.

• Fair payment to farmers and management of agricultural finances: One of the biggest challenges in the agricultural sector is managing financial, accounting and administrative information. Lack of access to financial services can adversely affect the performance of agricultural price chains. Blockchain technology makes data management more transparent and accessible, as well as efficient. Blockchain technology allows farmers to connect directly to retailers, which will completely eliminate the needs of middlemen. Thus, farmers will be able to get a fair price for their produce.

Mir Mehedi Hasan Shuvo,

Student Of Agro Process & Food Engineering at Jashore University of Science and Technology.