Source: ET
Why in News?
In March 2026, the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) launched the National Climate Stack Innovation Challenge to develop a National Climate Stack that provides decision-ready climate intelligence for agriculture, rural finance, and public planning.
About the Initiative
- Launched by: NABARD
- Partners: Gates Foundation and Dalberg Advisors
- Objective: Build a National Climate Stack to support climate-resilient agriculture and rural development.
Key Features
1. Digital Infrastructure
- The initiative is anchored in DiCRA (Data in Climate Resilient Agriculture).
- DiCRA will be upgraded from a digital public good to a digital public infrastructure for climate data.
2. Target Participants
The challenge is open to India’s:
- Tech startups
- Research institutions
- Universities
- Other innovators in the scientific ecosystem.
3. Awards
- 1st Prize: ₹15 lakh
- 2nd Prize: ₹10 lakh
- 3rd Prize: ₹5 lakh
Winners may also receive pilot project opportunities and adoption support through NABARD’s partner network.
What is the National Climate Stack?
- A digital platform integrating climate data, analytics, and decision tools.
- Designed to support:
- Climate-resilient agriculture
- Rural financial planning
- Public policy and development programmes
About NABARD
- Full Form: National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development
- Established: 12 July 1982
- Legal Basis: NABARD Act, 1981
- Role: Apex development bank for agriculture and rural development in India.
- Supervises Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) and cooperative banks.
