In the breathtaking landscapes of Kashmir, a technological shift is transforming agricultural practices, with artificial intelligence (AI) taking center stage in this evolution. The Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at Sheri-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology is leading the charge, employing AI to tackle pressing challenges faced by farmers in the region. Showkat Rasool, who heads the center, envisions a future where AI fundamentally reshapes farming, stating, “We are integrating this technology at the community level to help farmers grow larger yields, detect diseases early, map weather patterns, and reduce environmental stress.”
Agriculture is the backbone of Kashmir’s economy, with over 70% of the region’s economic activity tied to farming and nearly 80% of the population engaged in agricultural practices. The introduction of digital agriculture innovations stands to significantly enhance productivity and sustainability in this vital sector. At the forefront of this transformation is precision agriculture, a method that employs sensors, GPS, drones, and data analytics to optimize farming operations. This approach allows farmers to apply precise quantities of water, fertilizers, and pesticides, effectively boosting crop yields while minimizing waste and environmental impact.
While the use of AI in agriculture is still in its early stages in Kashmir, Rasool notes that data collection efforts are already underway. The center is utilizing advanced technologies such as wireless sensors, drones, automatic devices, and hyperspectral cameras to analyze farming fields. Despite the critical role of agriculture in the region, Rasool points out that yields remain relatively low compared to other parts of India. He emphasizes the need for a perspective shift, advocating for “smart agriculture,” which encompasses monitoring, predicting, decision-making, and automation. He believes that if cutting-edge technologies like AI are deployed correctly, they could revolutionize the agricultural landscape in Kashmir.
Haris Shah, a research scholar at the center, underscores the potential of AI-driven technologies, particularly automatic rover sprayers equipped with advanced sensors. “By leveraging these advancements, we can optimize pesticide application, reduce labor requirements, and minimize environmental impact,” he explains, showcasing the practical benefits of integrating AI into farming practices.
The technological revolution is not limited to traditional farming; it also extends to greenhouse cultivation. With over 10,558 different types of greenhouses across Kashmir and Ladakh, controlled-environment agriculture is gaining traction, especially given the harsh winter temperatures that leave much of the land barren. Agripreneur Sajid Ahmad, operating near Srinagar, highlights the versatility of greenhouses, stating, “We can grow everything from collard greens to tomatoes in controlled environments. Even many kinds of flowers are grown here too.” He emphasizes the importance of proper management and expert guidance to achieve optimal results.
Farmers in the region are receiving training to harness these technologies effectively, addressing the yield challenges that have historically plagued Kashmir’s agricultural sector. Rasool notes that thousands of setups are being established where farmers are educated in agritech practices, enabling them to run these innovative systems successfully. He reiterates that technology has already revolutionized farming practices worldwide and insists that Kashmir must embrace this change to avoid being left behind in the agricultural landscape. The integration of AI and advanced farming techniques promises not only to enhance productivity but also to create a more sustainable future for agriculture in the region.
