Promotion of AI Use in Agriculture and Impact Assessment

Why in news

The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare is actively promoting the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in agriculture through various projects aimed at improving farmer advisories, pest control, crop identification, insurance, scheme benefit delivery, and governance analytics.

Exam relevance

GS3 · Economy, Science & Technology, Governance · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare is implementing AI-related projects for farmer advisories, pest control, crop identification, insurance, scheme benefit delivery, and governance analytics.
2. The Digital Agriculture Mission supports States in adopting modern digital technologies like AI, Machine Learning, Blockchain, IoT, and Robotics.
3. The National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) uses AI/ML to detect pest infestation, currently supporting 73 crops and 436 pests.
4. NPSS is used by over 10,000 extension workers, enabling farmers to capture pest images for mitigation.
5. AI-based monsoon and weather advisories are provided by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to aid agricultural decision-making.
6. The weather advisory initiative has reached approximately 5.28 crore farmers.

Prelims pointers

• National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS) uses AI/ML for pest detection.
• AI-based monsoon and weather advisories are provided by IMD.
• Digital Agriculture Mission supports adoption of AI, ML, Blockchain, IoT, Robotics in agriculture.
• Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare is the nodal ministry for these initiatives.

Mains practice question

Discuss the role of Artificial Intelligence in transforming Indian agriculture. What are the key initiatives undertaken by the government in this regard, and what are their potential impacts on farmer livelihoods and food security?

Static linkage

The initiative links to the broader theme of Digital India and the application of emerging technologies in critical sectors like agriculture, aligning with government efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and farmer welfare through technological integration.

Significance

The promotion of AI in agriculture can lead to more precise farming practices, reduced crop losses, improved resource management, and better access to information for farmers. AI-powered advisories and surveillance systems can enhance resilience against climate change impacts and contribute to food security. It also signifies a move towards data-driven governance in the agricultural sector.