Tech blooms in Indian annadatas' fields: Agri-startups sow seeds for sustainable farming revolution
agri startups empower the nation's backbone—farmers, affectionately nicknamed Annadatas—by providing solutions tailored to address their issues comprehensively.Over the past nine years, the startups in agriculture and allied sectors have surged from 50 to 7,000 due to a favourable business climate and robust government support, according to a report titled 'Transformation of India's Agriculture' released by the Federation of All India Farmer Associations (FAIFA). In addition, the budget allocation for agriculture also saw a jump from ₹30,000 crore to ₹1.3 lakh crore.
The central government has launched various policies, including the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maandhan Yojana (PM-KMY), Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN), and Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) to extend financial support to farmers. Agripreneurs believe that Indian agriculture will transform the industry in the coming decade by shifting significantly towards sustainable practices like bio-based solutions and technological advancements like artificial intelligence, IoT, drones, etc.
“In the next 10 years, the adoption of bio-based solutions like microbial products, biofertilizers, and biopesticides will increase, driven by the need for eco-friendly farming methods. This shift will improve crop productivity, soil health, and water conservation and reduce pesticide residues," said Harsh Vardhan Bhagchandaka, President of IPL Biologicals.
“Precision agriculture technologies, such as AI, IoT, and drones, will be more integrated to optimize resource usage, improve yields, and minimize environmental impact. The agriculture industry is on the cusp of significant innovation, ready to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world," he told LiveMint. Bha
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