AI and technology in Manipur’s agriculture : A path to sustainable development
|
Dr Laishram Kanta Singh, Dr Asem Ameeta Devi and Dr S Roma Devi
Contd from previous issue
4. AI in Pest and Disease Management
AI-powered drones and cameras can detect early signs of pest infestations or fungal infections, allowing farmers to take preventive measures.
Example : “Trapview” uses AI-based pheromone traps to monitor and predict pest attacks.
5. Robotics and Automation : Small-scale AI-driven robots can assist in:
Weeding and harvesting (e.g., “Agribot”); Autonomous tractors for hilly terrains. This reduces labor costs and increases efficiency.
6. AI for Post-Harvest Management
Post-harvest losses in Manipur are significant due to poor storage. AI can help in: Predicting shelf life of perishable goods; Optimi- zing storage conditions using IoT-enabled warehouses
Example: “Intello Labs” uses AI to grade and sort agricultural produce, reducing wastage.
7. AI-Driven Market Linkages
Farmers often sell produce at low prices due to lack of market access. AI-based platforms can: Predict demand and price trends
Connect farmers directly to buyers via e-marketplaces
Example: “eNAM” (National Agricultural Market) could be integrated with AI to help Manipuri farmers get better prices.
Challenges in Implementing AI in Manipur’s Agriculture
Despite its potential, AI adoption in Manipur faces hurdles:
Limited Digital Infrastructure: Poor internet connectivity in rural areas restricts AI tool usage.
High Initial Costs: Small farmers may not afford AI-based equipment.
Lack of Awareness: Many farmers are unaware of AI’s benefits.
Resistance to Change: Traditional farming practices are deeply rooted.
Data Privacy Concerns: Farmers may hesitate to share farm data with AI platforms.
Government and Private Sector Initiatives
1. Government Schemes
“Digital Agriculture Mission” by the Indian government promotes AI in farming.
“Manipur State Agriculture Policy” could integrate AI-based solutions.
2. Private and Startup Involvement
Agri-tech startups can develop localized AI solutions for Manipur.
Collaborations with universities (e.g., Central Agricultural University, Imphal) for AI research in agriculture.
3. NGOs and Farmer Training
Training programs on AI tools for farmers.
Pilot projects in districts like Thoubal and Imphal West.
Future Prospects
AI-Powered Vertical Farming: Given Manipur’s limited arable land, vertical farming with AI-controlled environments can boost production.
Blockchain for Supply Chain Transparency: AI + blockchain can track farm-to-market movement, ensuring fair pricing.
AI in Organic Farming: Manipur’s organic produce (e.g., black rice) can gain global recognition with AI-driven certification and quality checks.
Conclusion
Artificial Intelligence has the potential to transform Manipur’s agriculture by making it more productive, sustainable, and profitable. While challenges like infrastructure and awareness exist, coordinated efforts by the government, private sector, and farmers can accelerate AI adoption. By embracing AI-driven solutions, Manipur can ensure food security, reduce farmer distress, and position itself as a leader in smart agriculture in Northeast India.The future of Manipur’s farming lies in the synergy of traditional knowledge and cutting-edge AI technology, paving the way for a digitally empowered agrarian economy. The writers are from ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Imphal West, ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Chandel, ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Churachandpur
Contd from previous issue
4. AI in Pest and Disease Management
AI-powered drones and cameras can detect early signs of pest infestations or fungal infections, allowing farmers to take preventive measures.
Example : “Trapview” uses AI-based pheromone traps to monitor and predict pest attacks.
5. Robotics and Automation : Small-scale AI-driven robots can assist in:
Weeding and harvesting (e.g., “Agribot”); Autonomous tractors for hilly terrains. This reduces labor costs and increases efficiency.
6. AI for Post-Harvest Management
Post-harvest losses in Manipur are significant due to poor storage. AI can help in: Predicting shelf life of perishable goods; Optimi- zing storage conditions using IoT-enabled warehouses
Example: “Intello Labs” uses AI to grade and sort agricultural produce, reducing wastage.
7. AI-Driven Market Linkages
Farmers often sell produce at low prices due to lack of market access. AI-based platforms can: Predict demand and price trends
Connect farmers directly to buyers via e-marketplaces
Example: “eNAM” (National Agricultural Market) could be integrated with AI to help Manipuri farmers get better prices.
Challenges in Implementing AI in Manipur’s Agriculture
Despite its potential, AI adoption in Manipur faces hurdles:
Limited Digital Infrastructure: Poor internet connectivity in rural areas restricts AI tool usage.
High Initial Costs: Small farmers may not afford AI-based equipment.
Lack of Awareness: Many farmers are unaware of AI’s benefits.
Resistance to Change: Traditional farming practices are deeply rooted.
Data Privacy Concerns: Farmers may hesitate to share farm data with AI platforms.
Government and Private Sector Initiatives
1. Government Schemes
“Digital Agriculture Mission” by the Indian government promotes AI in farming.
“Manipur State Agriculture Policy” could integrate AI-based solutions.
2. Private and Startup Involvement
Agri-tech startups can develop localized AI solutions for Manipur.
Collaborations with universities (e.g., Central Agricultural University, Imphal) for AI research in agriculture.
3. NGOs and Farmer Training
Training programs on AI tools for farmers.
Pilot projects in districts like Thoubal and Imphal West.
Future Prospects
AI-Powered Vertical Farming: Given Manipur’s limited arable land, vertical farming with AI-controlled environments can boost production.
Blockchain for Supply Chain Transparency: AI + blockchain can track farm-to-market movement, ensuring fair pricing.
AI in Organic Farming: Manipur’s organic produce (e.g., black rice) can gain global recognition with AI-driven certification and quality checks.
Conclusion
Artificial Intelligence has the potential to transform Manipur’s agriculture by making it more productive, sustainable, and profitable. While challenges like infrastructure and awareness exist, coordinated efforts by the government, private sector, and farmers can accelerate AI adoption. By embracing AI-driven solutions, Manipur can ensure food security, reduce farmer distress, and position itself as a leader in smart agriculture in Northeast India.The future of Manipur’s farming lies in the synergy of traditional knowledge and cutting-edge AI technology, paving the way for a digitally empowered agrarian economy. The writers are from ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Imphal West, ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Chandel, ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Churachandpur