Tech-Powered Growth: Lessons for Indian Agri & Allied Sectors

The Indian agriculture landscape is fast evolving, shaped by government policies, technological advancements and an increasing focus on sustainability. As the nation aims towards new frontiers,? policy interventions and?support from the Government of India will hold the key to unlocking significant potential for growth. Worldwide, technologies is being successfully implemented in agriculture and allied sectors by integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT) and data analytics with notable outcomes.

IoT in Smart Farming: In the Netherlands, IoT-enabled sensors are used in greenhouse farming to monitor and optimize soil conditions, water use and crop health in real time. This approach has transformed the country into a leading agricultural exporter despite its small land size. (Source: https://www.weforum.org/)

AI for Precision Agriculture: The US employs AI-powered systems to analyze satellite imagery and predict pest outbreaks, reducing crop damage and improving yields. For instance, platforms like Taranis use AI to monitor crop health at scale. (Source: https://www.taranis.com/)

Digital Platforms for Farmers: In Kenya, digital platforms provide smallholder farmers with access to financing, advisory services and market linkages, thus enhancing both, agricultural productivity and income. (Source: https://shorturl.at/tAUoL)

How India can learn from Global Examples

India’s agriculture sector is poised to be valued at approximately USD 24 billion by 2025. Similarly, the fertilizer industry, driven by demand and supportive policies, is expected to reach USD 16.58 billion by 2032. These numbers are optimistic and its achievement coupled with the objectives of making agriculture scalable and sustainable is the need of the hour..

Knowledge exchange with countries, the feasibility of tech applications followed by specific customization before devising a mechanism to funnel it among frontline, requires constructive effort.? Farmers, who are in the forefront in enabling tech powered growth? require thorough understanding of the new age technologies; indigenous IoT solutions for precision irrigation and AI tools for pest control and yield prediction. Such? pilot projects by agri-tech firms, supported by the Government and in partnership with farmers could lead to tech adoption and further pave the way for scalable solutions.

Programmes such as PM-KISAN and subsidies on fertilizer are pivotal, but could be complemented by targeted incentives for agri-tech adoption.?Further, the systematic advancement of research partnerships with institute of repute and industry bodies can enable the localization of new age technologies. Lastly, the?expanding initiatives such as e-NAM (National Agriculture Market) could help integrate more farmers into the digital ecosystem.

By adopting a systematic approach and leveraging international experiences, India can empower its agricultural sector to become, sustainable and resilient.