Integrating AI in agriculture need of hour

Premchand Thongam *

Integrating AI in agriculture need of hour :: Pix - Chronicle News Service / Premchand Thongam

With the global population projected to reach 10 billion by 2050, food security is set to become an increasingly pressing issue. The growing demand for commensurate food productivity is having immense pressure on the agriculture sector, necessitating the enhancement of production capacity worldwide.

To meet this challenge, expanding agricultural land, adopting large-scale farming, and integrating technological advancements with innovative approaches have become more critical than ever. Ensuring food security is not merely about increasing production but also about improving efficiency and sustainability in the agricultural sector.

However, despite ongoing efforts to boost production, several challenges hinder the progress. The availability of arable land is shrinking due to rapid urbanisation, industrial expansion, and the conversion of farmland for non-agricultural purposes.

Moreover, the number of farmers is declining, as many are leaving the profession due to financial instability, unpredictable weather conditions, and rising cost of inputs. Climate change further exacerbates the issue, bringing erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and extreme weather conditions that adversely impact crop yields.

Other environmental concerns, such as soil degradation and depletion of natural resources, also pose significant threats to sustainability of agricultural practices. Nonetheless, agriculture has remained an indispensable part of human civilisation and continues to be a key driver of economic development, making it crucial to find solutions that enhance productivity while ensuring long-term sustainability.

Technological advancements have revolutionised farming over time. In earlier eras, people manually till the land for cultivation, which later transitioned to using cattle for ploughing, and now rely on mechanised farming techniques.

The introduction of tractors, automated irrigation systems, and advanced fertilisers has significantly improved efficiency. Beyond farm mechanisation, emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) are making inroads into the sector, enabling real-time monitoring of soil health, crop growth, and weather conditions.

Among the most transformative innovations is Artificial Intelligence (AI), though its adoption in agriculture is limited as on date. Many may find the combination of AI and agriculture unusual, but this modern technology is proving to be instrumental in addressing climate change-related challenges, improving efficiency, and ensuring food security.

A key factor in AI's successful integration into agriculture is data. Organisations dedicated to improving productivity rely on detailed datasets to refine farming techniques and enhance yields. AI plays a crucial role in analysing these vast amounts of data, identifying optimal strategies, and assisting agribusinesses in making informed decisions.

The technology is capable of collecting extensive data within a short period, evaluating market trends, developing pricing models, and determining the best time to cultivate specific crops based on climate conditions, market demand, and natural growth cycles.

AI also aids in soil analysis, identifying fertility levels, soil types, suitable crop species, and the appropriate use of nutrients and pesticides. Furthermore, AI-powered predictive analytics help farmers anticipate potential threats such as pest infestations and plant diseases, allowing for timely interventions that prevent large-scale losses.

With AI-powered farm management software, farmers can streamline operations, increase efficiency, and ultimately contribute to greater productivity, profitability, and food security. AI-driven automation in harvesting, planting, and irrigation reduces labour costs and ensures precision in farming practices.

Although many farmers have abandoned agriculture, those who remain are still focused on maximising productivity. By incorporating AI, they can optimise resource utilisation, improve soil management, and achieve higher yields with minimal waste.

The role of AI in modern agriculture extends beyond efficiency - it is becoming a vital tool in securing the future of food production amid growing global demands and environmental uncertainties.

As AI continues to evolve and gain wider acceptance, its integration with traditional farming practices holds the potential to transform agriculture into a more resilient and sustainable sector, ensuring food security for future generations.


(This article is published under the
5th Scientific Journalism Program on
'Artificial Intelligence and Its Usage'
of the Public Relations and Media Management (PRMM) Cell,
Central Agricultural University, Imphal) .