J&K Govt Approves ‘Sensor-Based Smart Agriculture’ Project worth Rs 30.40 cr

According to an official statement, the project, which aims to establish a "sensor-based smart agriculture ecosystem," will benefit the region's agri-economy. Agriculture will become more appealing, professional, and competitive as it integrates with technology powered by AI and IoT.

"The project would enable the use of Hi-tech poly houses for the cultivation of cash crops around the year with the application of IoT and automation for monitoring the microclimatic parameters of plants. When compared to open field conditions, greenhouse technology will result in higher yields and off-season availability of vegetables as early production or late availability," according to the statement.

Agriculture accounts for more than 70% of the economy in Jammu and Kashmir, making it an important area for improving livelihoods through the use of digital agriculture to increase input use efficiency, production, productivity, and profitability. "The incorporation of technology, particularly AI and IoT, into agriculture has the potential to address issues such as low efficiency, profitability, and competitiveness. This could result in a more appealing and professional image for the industry," it continued.

This sensor-based smart agriculture project has the potential to transform the agri-economy of Jammu and Kashmir. A sensor-based pilot study on high-density apple orchards, protected cultivation, and smart livestock farming will be carried out as part of the project.

"The objective is to increase the use of resources and improve efficiency by up to 80 per cent and automate agricultural operations with precision in HDPs of Apple, vegetables, and livestock. The use of AI-based pest and disease detection using handheld sensor devices can significantly reduce drudgery and cultivation costs by 20%, according to the statement.

"The project also aims to develop algorithms for big data analytics for remote operations of IoTs and create a startup ecosystem in smart agriculture by networking with IITs and industries. Certificate and diploma courses in AI and ML, IoT, automation, and Blockchain technology will be launched to prepare skilled workers for the industry's new skill sets," it added.

According to Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary, Agriculture Production Department, the project will result in a 50-80% increase in resource use efficiency. "The real-time detection and variable rate spray using robotics and drones will reduce the production cost by 80 per cent. The proposal also includes the construction of a sensor corridor for livestock, phenotyping, and yield prediction," he added.