ICAR & TEC Successfully Conclude ITU/FAO Workshop, IoT and AI Solutions Explored

The recent workshop titled "Cultivating tomorrow: Advancing digital agriculture through IoT and AI" concluded on March 18, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the integration of technology into the agricultural sector. Organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the event brought together key stakeholders at the National Agricultural Science Complex (NASC), ICAR, New Delhi.

The workshop served as a platform for in-depth discussions on the practical applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and other emerging technologies throughout the agricultural value chain. Participants explored topics ranging from production to consumption, with a focus on addressing challenges such as population growth and climate change through innovative solutions.

One of the highlights of the workshop was the release of a joint Technical Report titled "Revolutionizing Agriculture: The Digital Transformation of Farming" by the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC), Department of Telecommunications (DoT), and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. This report aims to provide valuable insights for stakeholders in the agricultural sector, offering guidance on leveraging technology to enhance sustainability, efficiency, and resilience in food production.

Following the workshop, the Ninth Meeting of the ITU/FAO Focus Group on "Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) for Digital Agriculture" (FG-AI4A) took place on March 19, 2024, at the same venue. This continued dialogue underscores the ongoing commitment to collaborative efforts in advancing digital agriculture on a global scale.

Shri Ajay Kumar Sahu, Member (Services) & Additional Secretary (T), DoT, emphasized the crucial role of telecommunications in driving digital agriculture forward and narrowing the rural-urban digital divide. He outlined India's aspirations to provide farmers with digital connectivity and innovative tools to foster inclusive growth and sustainable development in the agricultural sector.

Mr. Seizo Onoe, Director of Standardization at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), highlighted India's increased engagement with ITU and stressed the importance of international cooperation in developing impactful standards for digital agriculture.

Ms. Tripti Saxena, Senior Deputy Director General & Head, TEC, underscored the transformative potential of technologies like IoT and AI in revolutionizing agriculture. She emphasized the importance of leveraging these technologies to optimize resource utilization and maximize crop yields for a sustainable future.

Dr. S K Chaudhari, Deputy Director General (NRM), ICAR, highlighted the workshop's significance for Indian agricultural research, particularly in alignment with ICAR's centenary and this year's focus on digital technology. He emphasized the potential of IoT and AI to advance the agricultural sector and enhance productivity.

The workshop also featured an exhibition area showcasing real-time applications of emerging technologies by various startups in the agricultural domain. From IoT and sensor-operated Greenhouse Vertical Farms to demonstrations of the Internet of Drones, delegates gained valuable insights into the innovative technologies shaping the future of agriculture.

With approximately 250 delegates participating in person and virtually, including representatives from ITU Member States, Sector Members, Academia, and international organizations, the workshop facilitated fruitful exchanges of insights and experiences in the evolving field of Agriculture 4.0.

In addition, field visits to cutting-edge facilities such as the IoT-operated Greenhouse Vertical Farm and Plant Phenomics Centre provided delegates with firsthand experiences of the transformative potential of technology in agriculture. These visits highlighted the efficiency and sustainability benefits of vertical farming techniques and the role of drone technology in crop monitoring and management.