RT team
In India, where farmers grapple with climate change, pestilence, and financial burdens, innovative AI-driven initiatives like AI4AI are offering transformative solutions. The “Saagu Baagu” project under AI4AI has empowered 7,000 Chilli farmers in Telangana, doubling their earnings through agritech and data management, setting an example of AI’s vast potential in agriculture.
Facing climate uncertainties, pest infestations, and financial constraints, smallholding Indian farmers endure numerous challenges. High-interest loans, crop wastage, logistical hurdles, and market access issues further compound their struggles, with up to 40% of produce going to waste.
In response to these hardships, the World Economic Forum’s AI for Agriculture Innovation (AI4AI) initiative, led by the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) India, is driving the adoption of AI and related technologies in agriculture. The ‘Saagu Baagu’ pilot, a shining example of this initiative, has bolstered the chili value chain for over 7,000 farmers in Telangana, raising yields, reducing pesticide and fertilizer usage, and improving quality standards. As a result, farmers have seen their incomes double, providing a sustainable and efficient agricultural model.
Building on these successes, the Telangana government has expanded Saagu Baagu’s reach, aiming to impact 500,000 farmers across ten districts and five different crops. This strategic expansion promises to revolutionize the agricultural landscape of the region, ushering in a new era of innovation and prosperity for Indian farmers.
Source: World Economic Forum
