Context:
The Indian horticulture sector contributes about 33 per cent to the agriculture Gross Value Added (GVA), making a very significant contribution to the Indian economy. As per a IBEF 2024 report.
India’s Horticulture Sector and Agri-GVA
- Horticulture contributes 33% to agricultural Gross Value Added (GVA).
- India’s agriculture market is projected to reach $24 billion by 2025 (IBEF, 2024).
- Growth potential is limited unless soil health, water access, and cropping decisions improve.
Rising Climate Risks in Farming
- Smallholders face increased risks from erratic rainfall, temperature changes, and pest outbreaks.
- Seasonal uncertainty undermines income stability and food security.
Smart Farming Tools
Field-Level Digital Interventions
- Satellite imaging, sensors, and weather-linked advisories offer real-time, location-specific guidance.
- These tools replace traditional guesswork with data-driven decision-making.
Impact of Drones & IoT
- Drones deliver 30–35% yield gains and up to 70% savings in water and fertilisers.
- Tools like Farmonaut and Fasal IoT improve yields by 15–30% and save 30–40% water.
Satellite and Remote Sensing Applications
- NDVI monitors plant health.
- SAR detects waterlogging and dryness, even during monsoons.
- Insights enable same-day interventions.
Climate Mitigation
- Smart farming can reduce India’s GHG emissions by 100–150 million tonnes CO₂e by 2030.
The Soil Health Crisis
- Over 70% of India’s cultivated land is degraded (NBSS&LUP, 2023).
- 146.8 million hectares affected due to:
- 29%: Soil lost to sea
- 61%: Displaced
- 10%: Silted in reservoirs
- Degradation caused by erosion, overuse of chemicals, and poor cropping patterns.
Solutions
- Regular soil testing, nutrient mapping, and targeted fertilisation improve yields sustainably.
Overcoming Barriers to Scale
Challenges
- High device costs, low digital literacy, and limited internet access in rural areas.
Solutions
- Leverage FPOs, cooperatives, and agri-extension workers.
- Promote low-cost kits, offline-compatible tools, and hands-on training.
