In the heart of the Armenian National Agrarian University, a quiet revolution is brewing. Ashot Voskanyan, a researcher at the Agrarian Policy and Economics Research Center (APERC), is leading the charge, exploring how digital technologies can transform agriculture in Armenia and beyond. His recent study, published in the Journal of Bio-Based Marketing (translated to English as the Journal of Bio-Based Marketing), offers a compelling look at the international experience in agricultural digitalization and its potential application in Armenia.
Voskanyan’s research delves into the digital agriculture initiatives of several developed and developing countries, examining state support policies and their feasibility in Armenia. “The timeliness of this study is undeniable,” Voskanyan asserts. “Today, it’s impossible to increase the competitiveness of agriculture without digital solutions.”
The study comes at a crucial time. The Armenian government has recognized the importance of digital agriculture, including it as a key measure in its 2021-2026 Programme for Activity Measures. Voskanyan’s research could serve as a roadmap for implementing these measures, helping to increase the productivity and competitiveness of Armenia’s agricultural sector.
The implications of Voskanyan’s research extend beyond Armenia’s borders. As countries worldwide grapple with the challenges of feeding a growing population in the face of climate change, digital technologies offer a promising solution. From precision farming to smart irrigation systems, digital tools can help farmers increase yields, reduce waste, and adapt to changing conditions.
Voskanyan’s study highlights the potential of these technologies, but it also underscores the need for careful planning and policy support. “The results of the studies and analyses can serve as a basis for developing and implementing measures aimed at the digitalization of agriculture,” Voskanyan notes.
As the world looks to the future of agriculture, Voskanyan’s research offers a valuable perspective. By learning from the experiences of other countries, Armenia can chart a path towards a more productive, competitive, and sustainable agricultural sector. And in doing so, it may provide a model for other nations to follow.
In the coming years, we can expect to see digital technologies play an increasingly important role in agriculture. Voskanyan’s research is a timely reminder that, with the right policies and support, these technologies can help us meet the challenges of the future. As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, the insights from Voskanyan’s study will be invaluable in shaping the development of digital agriculture in Armenia and beyond.