Digital agriculture: Transforming Indian farming through smart technologies for sustainable and climate-resilient development
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21533702Keywords:
Artificial Intelligence, Climate Resilience, Digital Agriculture, Internet of Things, Precision FarmingAbstract
Agriculture is witnessing a profound transformation through the integration of digital technologies that enhance productivity, resource use efficiency and environmental sustainability. Increasing climate variability, labour shortages, shrinking natural resources and the growing demand for food have accelerated the adoption of smart farming practices worldwide. Technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), drones, remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), robotics, cloud computing, and big data analytics are enabling farmers to monitor crops, optimize input use, and make timely, data-driven decisions. In India, initiatives including the Digital Agriculture Mission, AgriStack, e-NAM and AI-enabled advisory services are promoting technology driven farming and improving farmers' access to information, markets, and financial services. Digital agriculture not only enhances crop productivity and profitability but also supports climate resilience by reducing production risks and promoting efficient management of soil, water, and other natural resources. Despite challenges such as limited digital infrastructure, affordability, and inadequate technical awareness, continued policy support, innovation, and capacity building can accelerate technology adoption. Harnessing digital technologies offers a transformative pathway towards resilient, sustainable, and future-ready agricultural systems capable of ensuring food security and improving farmers' livelihoods.
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