Indian farmers are increasingly utilizing AI-based applications to improve crop management and efficiency. While successful examples exist, widespread adoption is hindered by the high costs of technology. Government support and initiatives are vital for enhancing access to AI tools, essential for modernizing India’s agriculture sector affected by climate change.
In India, many farmers, like R Murali from Karnataka, are using AI-driven applications to optimize their agricultural practices. This technology helps them monitor crops for watering, fertilization, and pest threats, enabling more efficient farming. Despite the traditional roots of much of India’s agriculture, AI is gradually being adopted to tackle issues exacerbated by climate change and outdated practices.
AI tools such as the one developed by Fasal provide vital data on soil conditions and weather, allowing farmers to make informed decisions. Murali credits Fasal’s system for reducing his costs significantly without impacting crop yields. Fasal, founded by tech entrepreneur Ananda Verma, claims to support around 12,000 farmers, improving their overall productivity.
However, the installation cost for such AI solutions ranges from $57 to $287, a significant financial burden for the average Indian farmer earning $117 monthly. With over 85% of farmers owning small plots of land, industry experts stress the need for low-cost solutions and increased availability of capital to expand AI adoption in agriculture.
The Indian government recognizes the potential of AI in agriculture and plans to promote homegrown technologies. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to co-host an AI summit, aiming to explore advancements in the agriculture sector, which is crucial for India’s economy and employs approximately two-thirds of the population.
Around 450 agritech startups in India are working to enhance farming practices using AI. Companies like Niqo Robotics have pioneered AI-driven chemical spraying techniques, optimizing use while reducing costs. Another startup, BeePrecise, has introduced AI monitors to evaluate beehive health, providing insights into improving honey quality.
Despite the technological advancements, many farmers struggle to afford AI systems. Agricultural economists argue that government intervention is necessary to subsidize these costs, as farmers often rely on their crops for sustenance. Enhanced support from the state could encourage broader use of AI, paving the way for modernization in the farming sector.
India’s agricultural sector, employing over 45 percent of the workforce, faces significant challenges due to climate change and outdated farming techniques. Many farmers are transitioning to AI technologies to enhance productivity and sustainability. However, financial barriers limit the adoption of these innovations, as most farmers operate on small plots with minimal income. Government initiatives and tech startups are key to bridging this gap and driving agricultural reform in India.
The integration of AI into Indian agriculture holds the promise of increased efficiency and productivity amidst severe climate challenges. While farmers like R Murali have begun to experience the benefits, the high costs of technology and lack of accessible funding remain major obstacles. For widespread adoption, government intervention is essential to subsidize costs and support the modernization of farming practices across the country. Ultimately, a collaborative effort between the technology sector and agricultural policymakers is crucial for advancing India’s farming future.
Original Source: www.wfxg.com
