Artificial Intelligence (AI) Going to Lead the Indian Agri-Sector Innovation in 2018

Which technology shall make an impact in Agri-Sector in India in 2018?

Last couple of days, I have been asked this question by many and thought to provide an in-depth view, than just talking another Jargon.

Given the maturity and early adoption of AI (artificial intelligence) in various forms and facets today in India so far, Agriculture with its inherent complexities - even for the basic questions like: When to What to sow? would require sophistication solutions that can be provided by AI. Thus making my choice of technology for 2018.

Today, many universities provide answers to basic questions by limited guess work and assumptions – that is non comprehensive. Even to answer a basic question of - When to Sow What to Sow? Requires a careful consideration of 30+ different Data Sets & Parameters, going by the simple approach usually taken by most of farming communities in India:

WHAT to SOW Depends on: Feasibility of Growing(1) a Healthy Crop(2) at the Farm Location(3) and climatological conditions(4) for this season (Rabi or Kharip)(5), the average yield last time from this farm(6), immediate preceding crop(7) taken at that farm, adjoining farm usages(8), nearest market(9) and likely price(10), storage facility(11) for active shelf life(12), expected income(13), soil condition(14), nutrition requirements(15) of crop(16), likely cost of inputs(17), where inputs available(18) and lead time to fetch(19), likely diseases(20) & pest attacks(21) and where to get the advisory for crop practices(22).

WHEN to SOW Depend on: The most conducive days of the season(23) that will help in – Highest Germination(24), Healthy saplings(25) and less mortality(26), rain / irrigation availability(27), climate(28) & weather(29)conditions, availability of labor(30), equipment’s(31) and other inputs(32). Likely market (9) and Price (10) at the Time of Harvesting (33) and selling price expected.

This requires sophisticated systems and connected over the internet where both human and machine/things can provide an integrated view of these parameters together at the same time, thus enabling to take a right decision.  In my view if this basic question is answered in all seriousness, it will lead to a plethora of AI driven IOT applications deployed across India and bringing in the required change for Agri-Economy and Doubling Farmer’s income etc...

As we embark in 2018, Agriculture sector is poised to take the center stage once again driving the economy with the potential it has for consumption and production BOTH!