The pace of innovation has increased to such an extent that we hear about new technology in the market every day. The demand for faster, scalable, and easier solutions is making tech adoption a necessity for every industry. Known as one of the least digitized sectors globally, the agriculture industry is also witnessing momentum for the development and commercialization of agricultural technologies.
Recently, a Cornish start-up has developed a technique using artificial intelligence to predict what the surface of the UK looks like under the gloomy skies. The satellite technology targets the agriculture sector and aims to help farmers better manage their crops. These advanced technologies are providing numerous benefits to farmers like increased scale, speed, and productivity of farm equipment, efficient cultivation of more land, improvements in seed irrigation, and fertilizers, etc.
However, a question regarding the implementation of these technologies continuously rises,
Are farmers really being able to leverage these advancements in agritech?
Well, there is no definite answer to this question as the technology and its application varies in every case. However, there are various factors we can consider to find an answer to this.
1. Affordability:
Affordability is one of the most prominent factors that directly impact the adoption of a particular technology. Some farmers may hesitate to use a costly technology even if it technology offers numerous benefits. Contrarily, some may choose advantages over cost and incorporate the technology.
2. Skills:
Many technologies require the operator to a specific set of skills. It is not always feasible for farmers to hire dedicated operators for the machines, thus, they need to have these skills. While some large companies arrange workshops for farmers on how to use the technology, some farmers that buy from local vendors may face problems regarding the technology implementation.
3. Reliability
While a majority of technologies are mostly reliable, some may have loopholes. Various factors like environmental conditions, location, etc. can affect the performance of a particular technology. Thus, we cannot fully predict the reliability of some technologies.
What lies ahead?
While we cannot convincingly say that farmers are leveraging the full potential offered by technology, we can see a lot of awareness in this field. With more young, educated people turning their focus towards agriculture, we are witnessing a changed attitude towards agriculture around the world. If this trend continues forward, farmers and the agricultural sector can definitely tap into the infinite possibilities offered by the technology!
Read more: Can Urine Evolution be a Booster for Green Revolution?
