Explore why AI is the need of the hour for agriculture. Hear from a real farmer on how AI can simplify their work, save resources, and transform farming into a smarter, more sustainable future.
We all know that agriculture has been the backbone of human civilisation ever since human life was discovered. With the world's population projected to reach 10 billion by 2050, the demand for food is increasing at an unprecedented rate (Food and Agriculture Organization [FAO], 2023). Like other sectors, agriculture is undergoing a technological revolution by incorporating artificial intelligence (AI). Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a game-changing solution, addressing challenges with precision, efficiency, and sustainability. Let’s understand it from a farmer’s perspective as to why AI is the need of the hour in agriculture.
#1 - The Challenges in Agriculture
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), nearly 30% of crops in India perish annually due to pest-related issues and poor storage facilities. Furthermore, small and marginal farmers, who constitute about 86% of the agricultural workforce (Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, 2023), lack access to modern farming techniques and data-driven decision-making tools.
#2 - Why AI is the Need of the Hour?
AI's role in agriculture is no longer optional—it is essential for meeting the food demands of a growing population while preserving natural resources. Traditional farming methods are often inefficient, leading to resource wastage and environmental degradation. AI’s ability to analyse vast datasets and predict adverse weather patterns enables farmers to adapt and mitigate risks effectively. AI addresses these issues by promoting sustainability and precision.
In a talk with a young local farmer, it came to light that "agriculture practices in smaller areas are still far from technology." He says: "Though technology cannot replace farmers, technology can make the jobs of farmers easier." Farmers like him have just been introduced to applications such as SkyMet Weather, which provide weather and climate forecasts in advance, allowing them to actively manage their produce, irrigation, and harvest activities.
He further added that AI and technologies can assist farmers in boosting their revenue by simplifying data analysis of the market and the produce, which can help them save expenses and time and minimise waste. However, smaller areas have not yet seen the introduction of such technologies.
The need of AI in every sector of the economy is underestimated. Given the global competitiveness, farming and agriculture continue to lag behind in terms of technological advancement. The integration of AI into agriculture is not just a technological advancement—it is a necessity for the survival and progress of humanity.
References
Sources
(2023). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations: Home. https://www.fao.org
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