Outlook Business Desk
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella emphasised AI's impact on Indian agriculture, sharing how it has helped small-town sugarcane farmers overcome challenges. Elon Musk also remarked on X, "AI will improve everything."
AI is transforming Indian agriculture by improving efficiency, sustainability, and productivity. With 60% of the population reliant on farming, these innovations are helping farmers address traditional challenges.
AI systems are assisting Indian farmers in predicting weather patterns, monitoring soil health, and analyzing crop conditions. These AI tools help make informed decisions about sowing, irrigation, and harvesting timings.
AI-driven smart irrigation systems optimize water usage by monitoring soil moisture levels and predicting rainfall. These systems ensure that crops receive the appropriate amount of water at the right time, reducing waste and improving yields.
Farmers often struggle with pests and plant diseases that lower productivity. AI enables them to upload images of their crops for instant diagnoses and treatment suggestions. This technology uses deep learning to analyze symptoms, helping to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides and improve crop health.
AI-driven platforms like DeHaat and AgriBazaar connect farmers with buyers directly, eliminating middlemen and ensuring better prices. They utilise AI to predict demand and recommend the best times for selling crops, maximising farmers’ earnings.
AI is also enhancing dairy farming and animal husbandry. AI monitors cattle health, predicts diseases, and optimises milk production. Wearable sensors help farmers track livestock behavior, which improves productivity and reduces losses.
AI assists farmers in saving money by optimising resource usage and reducing waste. AI-driven precision agriculture minimises the use of fertilizers, pesticides, and water, thereby cutting unnecessary expenses. Automated pest detection and targeted treatments decrease crop loss and lower input costs.