How agricultural evolution is giving rise to a new futuristic model of farming – Times of India

India is home to the worlds second-largest population and a significant contributor to global agricultural production. But to meet the growing demands of a burgeoning global population, which is estimated to surpass 9.8 billion by 2050, India must move mountains to bolster its agricultural sector. Considering that about 58% of the Indian populace relies on agriculture as their primary source of livelihood, farm productivity and profitability should collectively and sustainably be improved to meet future demands.

Technology has the potential to leapfrog these challenges and give rise to a new futuristic model. Steered by the innovation of Indian startups and underpinned by government intervention, the dynamics of agriculture in India are already changing. Ripe for disruption, the Indian AgriTech sector is projected to propel to $30-35 billion by 2025. By leveraging technology, India can further improve its agricultural and food systems while improving peoples livelihoods and producing healthier ecosystems.

Redefining farming methods

The emergence of AgriTech in India has empowered many farmers to embrace new farming methods that boost productivity and reduce environmental impact. Technological intervention and digital transformation have given rise to precision farming which harnesses data, artificial intelligence, automation, sensors and drones to optimize farm production and returns. Farmers are now collaborating with startups to deploy sensors and wireless devices on their fields that help them continually monitor soil health, crop growth and detect pests and diseases, thereby enabling them to take action as and when needed.

Data-fortified agriculture

Indian farmers are plagued by wavering weather, pests and diseases and volatile output prices. To build resilient farming systems, farmers must leverage data and predictive analytics that can equip them with timely information to minimize risk. Several startups are providing farmers with smart sensors, smartphones and UAVs that capture the most granular data such as soil moisture, pH and temperature, weather patterns, wind speed, etc. Experts analyze this data and share it in real-time with farmers to enable timely interventions.

Digital resources at farmers disposal

Most Indian farmers live in remote and underdeveloped villages far from technology. But in recent years, smartphones and the Internet have penetrated even the remotest corners of the country. Additionally, through AgriTech startups technology and digital tools have reached the farming communities of India. Currently, there are over 1300 agriculture startups harnessing AI, ML and IoT to increase utilization and innovation of farming resources. By leveraging these digital resources, farmers can procure the latest farming inputs, machines and data, connect with traders and exporters and improve productivity and profitability.

Agricultural diversification

Most Indian farmers possess small landholdings and rely on the mono-crop culture that provides seasonal income, low output and poor returns. However, with increasing awareness, better market linkages and financial inclusion, many small and marginal farmers are diversifying their agricultural practices. These farmers are supplementing their existing produce with the production of fruits, vegetables, spices, nuts, dairy, livestock, and aquaculture. With integrated farming systems, farmers can maximize their time, profitability and output.

Government initiatives & interventions

Over the years, the government has introduced numerous measures and policies to improve farming outputs, returns and welfare conditions. Whether it is covering farmers under the ambit of formal credit and crop insurance or allowing foreign investments into the agricultural sector, these initiatives have boosted farmer income and agricultural growth. Additionally, the Digital Agricultural Mission is also set to clear several roadblocks in the agricultural sector and uplift the status of Indian farmers.Furthermore, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has also announced allocation of 600 million towards digital agriculture in Budget FY 2022-23.

The road ahead is riddled with a slew of challenges- growing global population, natural disasters, worsening climate change and a looming food crisis. To meet the new challenges of the future, Indian farmers can no longer rely on obsolete methods and machinery. By harnessing modern technologies, farmers can overcome challenges and grow food more sustainably, boost productivity and earn better returns. A farming system led by technology can pave the way for new-age agriculture in India that is resilient to brave the uncertainties of the future and robust to meet the needs of tomorrow.

Views expressed above are the author's own.

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How agricultural evolution is giving rise to a new futuristic model of farming - Times of India