Disruptive technologies: shaping the future of agriculture

Disruptive technologies for agriculture

Abstract

Disruptive technology is an innovation that significantly alters the way that consumers, industries, or businesses operate. Robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and internet of things (IoT) are all technologies that have the potential to radically transform the way we grow food. These are poised to revolutionize future of agriculture as we know it. Robotics can take over many of the tasks currently performed by human workers, from transplanting and watering to harvesting and packaging. AI can be used to monitor crops and optimize conditions for maximum yield. And IoT devices can provide real-time data on everything from soil moisture levels to pest infestations. Drones or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) with sensor and imaging capabilities can play an increasingly role in identifying and reducing crop damage. In India, over 80 per cent farmers are small and marginal (<1 ha), it is difficult to manage invasive pests. If one field is sprayed, the pests shift to the neighbouring fields. These can be employed in several field operations and is an excellent tool for rapid, reliable, and non-destructive detection of field problems. Not only will these make our crop production more efficient and sustainable, but it will also free up farmers. In combination with vertical farming, these technologies could increase the efficiency and quality of horticultural products. The entire growth process could be digitized and made available in the form of algorithms. This would allow tech companies to get into the food-growing business. And they could probably do it much cheaper and faster.