Rise of agri tech in India

Transformative technological solutions are increasing in the agricultural sector, leading to the rise of over 1,300 start-ups aimed at addressing the untapped potential of the agri-tech space. Up until 2021, India received investments of over USD 1.6 billion in agri-tech, being the third highest globally.
The agri-tech industry is one of the most important pillars to build a sustainable future due to its high demand in India and the global market. The Economic Survey of India 2022-23 highlighted that India’s agriculture sector has grown 4.6% over the last six years with over 1000 agri-tech start-ups having emerged in the sector. Infrastructural development plays a key role in building a robust agri-tech sector.
Role of Agri-Start-ups:
Agri tech start-ups can play a significant role in bringing about agrarian changes by introducing innovative technology and modern practices in the agriculture sector.
Agri tech start-ups can contribute to agrarian changes by improving Farming Techniques, Increasing Efficiency, Access to Finance etc
Precision Agriculture:
Technology such as GPS, drones, and sensors are being used to monitor crops, soil, and weather conditions.
This allows farmers to make data-driven decisions and optimize resource management such as water and fertilizer usage.
Agricultural Machinery:
Mechanization has been a key factor in improving the productivity of the agrarian sector.
Modern agricultural machinery such as tractors, harvesters, and seed drills have enabled farmers to increase their efficiency and reduce labour costs.
Biotechnology:
Biotechnology has been used to develop crops that are resistant to pests and diseases, drought-resistant, and have increased yield.
This has resulted in increased productivity, reduced crop loss, and better quality crops.
Food Processing and Preservation:
Technology has enabled the development of food processing and preservation techniques that ensure food is safe and has a longer shelf life.
This has reduced food waste and ensured that crops can be stored and transported more efficiently.
Market Access:
Technology has enabled farmers to have better access to markets, both locally and internationally.
The internet and e-commerce have made it possible for farmers to connect with buyers and sell their products directly, bypassing middlemen and increasing profits.
What are the Related Steps taken?
Digital Agriculture Mission (DAM) Initiative:
It was launched in September 2021 to help agri-tech start-ups by leveraging advances in cloud computing, earth observation, remote sensing, data, and AI/ML models.
What are the Issues with Agri-Tech in India?
1.Limited Digital Literacy
2.High Upfront Costs
3.Fragmented Land Holdings
4.Limited infrastructure
5.Inadequate of government policies
6.Lack of collaboration
7.Limited market access
8.Issue with regulations of drones
What Should be the Way Forward?
1.Encouraging the Adoption of Modern Technology
2.Promote Farmer-Centric Research
3.Improve access to technology
4.Promote education and training
5.Improving the drone regulation